The bill introduces the "Florida Hands-Free Driving Law," which prohibits the operation of a motor vehicle while using a wireless communications device in a handheld manner, aiming to enhance roadway safety and reduce accidents. It defines key terms such as "handheld manner" and "hands-free accessory," and allows for exceptions in specific situations like emergency reporting and navigation. The legislation establishes a tiered penalty system for violations, including fines and points on the driver's license, and requires law enforcement to record and report the race and ethnicity of violators annually. First-time offenders may participate in a driving safety program as an alternative to penalties.

Additionally, the bill mandates that starting February 1, 2020, the department must report annually on data collected from law enforcement agencies, including statewide totals for local, state, and state university law enforcement agencies. It also updates terminology in the reporting requirement, changing "subsection" to "paragraph" and modifying the phrasing regarding data combination for local law enforcement agencies. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 1318 Filed: 316.305, 316.306