Signed by Governor Jerry Brown, Jr.

Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to concur with Senate amendments and pass a bill that prohibits the use of handheld electronic devices while operating a motor vehicle.

Highlights:

• Prohibits an individual from driving a motor vehicle while operating a handheld wireless telephone or “electronic wireless communications device”, unless the device allows for voice and hands-free operation (Sec. 2).

• Defines “electronic wireless communications device” as including, but not limited to, the following devices (Sec. 2):

• A broadband personal communications device;

• A specialized mobile radio device;

• A handheld device or laptop computer with mobile data access;

• A pager; or

• A 2-way messaging device.

• Specifies that a driver operating a motor vehicle may use a handheld electronic device if the following conditions are met (Sec. 2):

• The device is mounted to the windshield, dashboard, or center console of the motor vehicle in a way that does not obstruct vision; and

• The driver’s hand is used to activate or deactivate a feature with a single swipe or tap of the finger.

• Establishes a $20 fine for a first-time violation of this law and a $50 fine for each subsequent violation of this law (Sec. 2).

• Exempts an emergency services professional using a handheld electronic device while operating an authorized emergency vehicle from the provisions of this bill (Sec. 2).

Full Bill Text

Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that prohibits the use of handheld electronic devices while operating a motor vehicle.

Highlights:

• Prohibits an individual from driving a motor vehicle while operating a handheld wireless telephone or “electronic wireless communications device”, unless the device allows for voice and hands-free operation (Sec. 2).

• Defines “electronic wireless communications device” as including, but not limited to, the following devices (Sec. 2):

• A broadband personal communications device;

• A specialized mobile radio device;

• A handheld device or laptop computer with mobile data access;

• A pager; or

• A 2-way messaging device.

• Specifies that a driver operating a motor vehicle may use a handheld electronic device if the following conditions are met (Sec. 2):

• The device is mounted to the windshield, dashboard, or center console of the motor vehicle in a way that does not obstruct vision; and

• The driver’s hand is used to activate or deactivate a feature with a single swipe or tap of the finger.

• Establishes a $20 fine for a first-time violation of this law and a $50 fine for each subsequent violation of this law (Sec. 2).

• Exempts an emergency services professional using a handheld electronic device while operating an authorized emergency vehicle from the provisions of this bill (Sec. 2).

Full Bill Text