Vote to pass a bill that prohibits texting while driving, effective December 31, 2012.
Highlights:
Prohibits an individual from using a handheld electronic communication device to manually read, write, or send a written message while operating a motor vehicle, except in the following circumstances (Sec. 2):
The individual is the operator of an emergency vehicle who is using equipment necessary for the performance of his or her duties;
The individual is reading or entering a telephone number or name for the purpose of making or receiving a telephone call; or
The individual is inside a motor vehicle that is not in motion.
Classifies a violation of this bill as a nonmoving civil traffic violation (Sec. 2).
Establishes the following civil fines for violations of this bill (Sec. 2):
$50 if the individual is not involved in a motor vehicle accident; and
$200 if the individual is involved in a motor vehicle accident.
Requires a law enforcement officer to issue a warning, but not a citation, for violations of the provisions of this bill between January 1, 2013, and January 31, 2013 (Sec. 3).