Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to amend and pass a bill that increases penalties for distracted driving laws.

Highlights:

• Amends distracted driving laws to include prohibitions on the use of any electronic device and requires individuals with 3 or more distracted driving violations within in a 3-year period to complete a basic driver’s improvement course within a reasonable time (Sec. 602b).

• Defines “elctronic device” as any task such as the following, including, but not limited to (Sec. 602b):

• Sending or receiving a telephone call;

• Sending, receiving, or reading a text message;

• Viewing, recording, or transmitting a video;

• Accessing, reading, or posting to a social networking site.

• Exempts any law enforcement officer, firefighter, emergency medical technician, paramedic, operator of an authorized emergency vehicle, or similarly engaged paid or volunteer public safety first responder during the performance of their official duties, or an indivdual making an emergency call from the aforementioned provisions (Sec. 602b).

• Specifies the following penalty fines for distracted driving, including for (Sec. 602b):

• First violation a $200 fine or 32 hours of community service or both;

• Second or subsequent violation a $500 fine or 48 hours of community service or both; and

• If involved in an accident for which they are at fault due to distracted driving then a civil fine double the original amount.

• Authorizes an individual to use a mobile electronic device device that is integrated into a motor vehicle and utilizes user interfaces that are installed in the vehicle (Sec. 602b).

• Specifies that this bill shall not take effect unless House Bill 4251 and House Bill 4252 are passed and enacted into law (Sec. 602b).

Full Bill Text