Governor Rell Signs Bill Bolstering State's Distracted Driving Law

Press Release

Governor M. Jodi Rell today signed legislation she proposed that significantly strengthens Connecticut's 5-year-old ban on the use of cell phones and other electronic devices by motorists. The new law eliminates the one-time exemption from a fine for purchasing a hands-free device and specifies that the ban on using electronic devices while driving applies to texting as well as cell phone conversations.

Governor Rell signed the bill in a ceremony at the Manchester Police Department, noting that law enforcement officers across Connecticut deal with the consequences of distracted driving every day.

"They see it in terms of avoidable accidents. They see it in terms of unnecessary injuries. And sometimes, worst of all, they see it in terms of a fatality -- a death that never needed to happen," Governor Rell said. "Five years ago, Connecticut became one of the first states in the nation to fight back against these totally preventable crashes. Now it is time to bolster that law.

"Since this law has been in effect, we have had a provision that allows first-time offenders to avoid the fine if they purchase a hands-free accessory," the Governor said. "Frankly, after five years it is time to eliminate that "get-out-of-jail-free' provision. We also need to make it clear that the law applies to texting.

"Technology is a wonderful thing -- and cell phones, BlackBerries and other modern devices have enhanced our lives in many ways," Governor Rell said. "As Governor, I have a BlackBerry and carry it with me almost everywhere. But there is nothing that this device can tell me or give me that is worth a single human life. The same is true for every one of us, every time we get behind the wheel."

The new law also increases the penalties for repeat offenders. First-time violators face a fine of $100. Second offenses carry a fine of $150 while subsequent violations are fined $200. In addition, the law specifies that 25 percent of fines collected will go to the municipality where the summons was issued.

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