The introduction of this bill is poised to significantly impact state laws governing road safety and motor vehicle regulations. By defining terms more explicitly, such as 'great bodily injury,' it aims to create clearer expectations for both law enforcement and citizens. Additionally, it sets forth specific penalties that are somewhat lenient at first glance but escalate significantly in serious situations. Importantly, during the first 180 days post-enactment, law enforcement is instructed to issue only warnings, which provides a transitional phase for raising public awareness without immediate penal consequences.
House Bill 3137 seeks to amend Section 56-5-3890 of the South Carolina Code of Laws related to the unlawful use of wireless electronic communication devices while operating motor vehicles. Notably, the bill introduces a definition for 'great bodily injury,' specifying it as injury that creates a substantial risk of death or results in serious disfigurement or loss of bodily member function. The bill's primary focus is to enforce stricter penalties for violations of texting while driving, categorizing violations based on the outcome of the offense, such as fines escalating from $25 for minor infractions to $1,000 in cases leading to great bodily injury or death.
A noteworthy aspect of HB 3137 is its preemption of local ordinances regarding the use of electronic communication devices while driving, effectively centralizing regulatory authority at the state level. This has the potential to spark debate among local governments regarding their ability to enforce more stringent regulations tailored to their communities. Proponents of the bill argue that a unified state law is necessary to enhance safety and compliance, while opponents may assert that this undermines local control and the ability to address specific regional challenges effectively.