Signed by Governor Earl Tomblin

Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that classifies the failure to wear a seat belt and the use of an electronic communication device while operating a motor vehicle as a primary offense.

Highlights:

• Classifies the failure to wear a seat belt while operating a motor vehicle as a primary offense with a fine of $25, whereas current law classifies the failure to wear a seat belt as a secondary offense (Sec. 15).

• Classifies the use of an electronic communication device while operating a motor vehicle as a primary offense with a fine of $100 for the first offense, $200 for the second offense, and $300 for any offense thereafter, effective July 1, 2013 (Sec. 14).

• Prohibits liability coverage policy from denying a driver’s insurance coverage for injuries caused by a violation of this bill (Sec. 14).

Full Bill Text

Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that classifies the failure to wear a seat belt and the use of an electronic communication device while operating a motor vehicle as a primary offense.

Highlights:

• Classifies the failure to wear a seat belt while operating a motor vehicle as a primary offense with a fine of $25, whereas current law classifies the failure to wear a seat belt as a secondary offense (Sec. 15).

• Classifies the use of an electronic communication device while operating a motor vehicle as a primary offense with a fine of $100 for the first offense, $200 for the second offense, and $300 for any offense thereafter, effective July 1, 2013 (Sec. 14).

• Prohibits liability coverage policy from denying a driver’s insurance coverage for injuries caused by a violation of this bill (Sec. 14).

Full Bill Text