The bill amends Florida Statutes to establish the "Florida Hands-Free Driving Law," which prohibits the operation of a motor vehicle while using a wireless communications device in a handheld manner. It defines key terms such as "hands-free accessory" and "wireless communications device," and mandates that any sustained use of these devices while driving must be conducted through a hands-free accessory. The legislation includes exceptions for emergency reporting and receiving safety-related information. Additionally, it revises penalty provisions for violations, introducing a tiered penalty system for repeat offenders, which includes fines and points on the driver's license. Law enforcement officers are required to record the race and ethnicity of violators and report this data annually.

House Bill 501 further enhances the enforcement and reporting of violations related to the use of wireless communications devices while driving. It mandates that all fines collected for such violations be directed to the Emergency Medical Services Trust Fund of the Department of Health. Law enforcement officers must specify the type of wireless device used in the violation and maintain records of the violator's race and ethnicity, which must be reported annually to the Governor, the President of the Senate, and the Speaker of the House of Representatives. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
H 501 Filed: 316.305, 316.306