Legislative Update: Texting and Driving Ban
More information about the bill can be found below
On Wednesday, May 15, 2019, the Massachusetts State House of Representatives passed legislation to require the use of hands-free mobile telephones while driving. This legislation was passed with public safety in mind as we have increasingly seen tragedy in our communities as a result of texting while driving. The legislation also included important data collection information to make sure this and other traffic laws are not enforced in a discriminatory manner. I was proud to vote YES on this important issue. The bill is now before the Senate, which has indicated it will take it up in the next few weeks.
Texting and Driving Ban
H. 3793 – An Act Requiring the Hands-Free Use of Mobile Telephones While Driving
- Prohibits the use of mobile electronic devices by drivers unless the device is being used in hands-free mode, with a single touch or swipe allowed to active hands-free operation.
- Does not apply to public safety personnel or first responders performing their duties, and drivers could still use mobile electronic devices in certain emergency situations
- Requires annual analysis of racial and demographic identification of drivers issued citations during traffic stops. (The police must issue citations for all car stops and provide a warning or issue a ticket.)
- Study created to determine how to expand data collection for stops when a citation is not issued.