Relating to hands-free operation of electronic communication devices while driving, and making penalties applicable

This bill prohibits a person from using a hand-held electronic communication device while driving a motor vehicle unless the motor vehicle is at a complete stop off the traveled portion of the roadway, or unless the hand-held electronic communication device is specifically designed and configured to allow hands-free operation and is used in that manner while driving.276 by using a fixed unit global positioning system or navigation system to receive navigation directions, provided the person does not manually enter data into the fixed unit global positioning system or navigation system while operating the vehicle. 276 is punishable by a scheduled fine of $45. The offense is not a moving violation, and therefore cannot be considered for purposes of administrative suspension of a driver’s license or to establish habitual offender status. However, 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 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.