SB 447

Current law prohibits inattentive driving of a motor vehicle, which includes:

1) being so engaged or occupied, while driving a motor vehicle, as to interfere with

the safe driving of the vehicle; and 2) driving a motor vehicle while composing or

sending an electronic text message or an e-mail message, subject to various

exceptions. Any person convicted of these forms of inattentive driving may be

required to forfeit not less than $20 nor more than $400.

This bill prohibits a person driving under an instruction permit or a

probationary license from driving a motor vehicle while using a cellular or other

wireless telephone (cellular phone), except to report an emergency. (A probationary

license is, with certain exceptions, issued to all applicants for an original driver's

license and remains in effect for two years from the date of the licensee's next

birthday.) The prohibition applies regardless of whether the cellular phone is

hand-held, installed in the vehicle, or otherwise situated, and regardless of whether

use of the cellular phone interferes with operation of the vehicle. Persons who violate

this prohibition may be required to forfeit not less than $20 nor more than $40 for

a first offense, and not less than $50 nor more than $100 for a second or subsequent

offense within one year.