Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill increasing fines for using a cell phone without a hands free device while driving a car or riding a bicycle.

Highlights:

• Requires the driver's license examination to include a test of the applicant's understanding of the "distractions and dangers of handheld cell phone use and text messaging while operating a motor vehicle' (Sec. 1).

• Prohibits use of a cellular phone while driving a car or riding a bike unless the phone is equipped with a device specifically meant to allow for hands free listening and talking (Sec. 3):
• Establishes a fine of $50 for a first time offense, and a $100 fine for any subsequent offenses in the case of driving; and
• Establishes a fine of $20 for a first time offense, and a $50 fine for any subsequent offenses in the case of riding a bicycle.

• Establishes that a person shall not drive a motor vehicle or ride a bicycle while using an electronic wireless communications device to write, read, or send text based a text-based communication (Sec. 5):
• Establishes a fine of $50 for a first time offense, and a $100 fine for any subsequent offenses in the case of driving; and
• Establishes a fine of $20 for a first time offense, and a $50 fine for any subsequent offenses in the case of riding a bicycle.

• Prohibits those less than 18 years of age from using a cellular phone while driving, with or without a hands free device (Sec. 6):
• Establishes a $50 fine for the first offense and a $100 fine for each subsequent offense.

• Requires that $10 of each fine be transferred to the Controller to be inserted into the "Defensive Driver's Education Fund', which is created in the State Treasury for an education program on the dangers of cell phone use and text messaging while driving (Sec. 7).

Full Bill Text