Prohibiting the use of an electronic communications device while operating a motor vehicle and providing penalties for violations thereof.
Impact
The bill stipulates clear penalties for violations, starting with a $150 fine for a first-time offense and escalating to $500 for repeat violations. More severe consequences are set for violations resulting in property damage or bodily injury, including misdemeanor charges and potential felony status if death occurs. These structured penalties aim to deter drivers from using electronic devices, thereby promoting adherence to traffic safety regulations. Additionally, the bill includes exceptions for emergency service personnel and certain hands-free operations, demonstrating a measured approach to enforcement.
Summary
Senate Bill 122 aims to enhance traffic safety by prohibiting the use of electronic communication devices while operating a motor vehicle. The bill defines 'electronic communication devices' broadly, including mobile phones, tablets, and other handheld devices used for communication or data retrieval. The primary objective of SB122 is to reduce distracted driving incidents, which are a significant cause of road accidents and fatalities. By limiting the use of these devices, the bill seeks to create a safer driving environment for all road users.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding SB122 include concerns about enforcement and the potential for overreach into personal freedoms. Some lawmakers and advocacy groups argument that blanket prohibitions could lead to unjust penalties for minor infractions. Additionally, the bill raises questions about the adequacy of current infrastructure and educational efforts to inform the public about the new regulations. Opponents caution that the focus should also be on comprehensive driver education about the dangers of distracted driving rather than solely on punitive measures.
Requiring drivers to proceed with due caution when passing stationary vehicles displaying hazard warning lights and prohibiting the use of mobile telephones by individuals under 18 years of age and for everyone in school and construction zones and providing penalties thereof for violations.
Creating a traffic infraction for leaving a child eight years of age or younger unattended in a motor vehicle and providing penalties for violations therefor and requiring the division of vehicles to disseminate information related to the danger of leaving children unattended in vehicles in driver's education materials.
Requiring drivers to proceed with due caution when passing stationary vehicles displaying hazard warning lights and providing a penalty for violation thereof.
Creating a crime for injuring or causing death of certain authorized emergency vehicle operators and establishing penalties therefor and increasing penalties for unlawful passing of stationary authorized emergency vehicle.
Imposing sales and compensating use tax on digital property and subscription services and providing for the decrease in sales and compensating use tax rates in certain circumstances.
Relating to appointment of and performance of notarial acts by an online notary public and online acknowledgment and proof of written instruments; authorizing a fee and creating a criminal offense.