The use of a cellular or other wireless telephone while driving a motor vehicle in a construction zone and providing a penalty

What it does

Summary by the Legislative Reference Bureau, the Legislature's nonpartisan drafting office. It's their wording, not ours.

Current law prohibits inattentive driving of a motor vehicle, which includes 1) being engaged or occupied with an activity, other than driving the vehicle, that interferes with the person's ability to drive the vehicle safely; 2) driving a motor vehicle while composing or sending an electronic text message or an e-mail message, subject to various exceptions; 3) a probationary license or instructional permit holder driving a motor vehicle while using a cellular or other wireless telephone; and 4) operating or being in a position to directly view an electronic device that provides visual entertainment, subject to various exceptions. Any person convicted of the first two forms of inattentive driving may be required to forfeit not less than $20 nor more than $400, and any person convicted of the third or fourth forms of inattentive driving 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.

This bill prohibits a person from driving a motor vehicle while using a cellular or other wireless telephone in a construction zone, except to report an emergency.

Who's behind it

16 lawmakers are its authors⁠. 9 are Republicans and 7 are Democrats.

10 more lawmakers signed on in support⁠.