Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that prohibits individuals from manually preparing and transmitting written communications using a handheld wireless device while operating a motor vehicle.

Highlights:

-Exempts an individual from the prohibition against text messaging while driving if he or she is driving a law enforcement, fire, or emergency medical vehicle while engaging in the course and scope of his or her duties (Secs. 1 & 3). -Exempts an individual from the prohibition against text messaging if he or she is using a voice-operated or hands free device that allows the user to review, prepare, and transmit a text message without the use of either hand other than to activate, deactivate, or initiate a feature or function or to dial a telephone number (Sec. 1). -Classifies a violation of the prohibition against text messaging while driving as an infraction, punishable by a $50 fine for the first violation, and a $100 fine for the second and subsequent violation, provided there was no property damage or injury to any individual (Sec. 3). -Classifies a violation of the prohibition against text messaging while driving in which there was either property damage or injury to any individual as a misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of not more than $300, 90 day imprisonment, or both fine and imprisonment (Sec. 3).

Full Bill Text

Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that prohibits individuals from manually preparing and transmitting written communications using a handheld wireless device while operating a motor vehicle.

Highlights:

-Exempts an individual from the prohibition against text messaging while driving if he or she is driving a law enforcement, fire, or emergency medical vehicle while engaging in the course and scope of his or her duties (Secs. 1 & 3). -Exempts an individual from the prohibition against text messaging if he or she is using a voice-operated or hands free device that allows the user to review, prepare, and transmit a text message without the use of either hand other than to activate, deactivate, or initiate a feature or function or to dial a telephone number (Sec. 1). -Classifies a violation of the prohibition against text messaging while driving as an infraction, punishable by a $50 fine for the first violation, and a $100 fine for the second and subsequent violation (Sec. 3).

Full Bill Text