Relating to the use of an electronic communication device while driving, and providing penalties

The bill defines “electronic message” to mean a self-contained piece of digital communication, whether verbal or written, that is designed or intended to be transmitted between electronic communication devices. The term includes telephone calls, video calls, electronic mail, text messages, instant messages, and commands or requests to access an internet site. The bill exempts the use of an electronic communication device in a hands-free mode, for members of a public safety agency performing official duties, for health care professionals in the course of emergency situations, for the purpose of reporting an emergency situation, or by pressing a single button to initiate or terminate a voice communication.276 a moving violation. Under current law, a moving violation can be considered for purposes of administrative suspension of a driver’s license or to establish habitual offender status.276 from $30 to $100.482A, if the violation causes a serious injury, a court could impose an additional fine of $500 or suspend the person’s driver’s license for not more than 90 days, or both. If the violation causes a death, a court could impose an additional fine of $1,000 or suspend the person’s driver’s license for not more than 180 days, or both.276 as amended by the bill.