The bill introduces the "Florida Hands-Free Driving Law," which aims to enhance traffic safety by prohibiting the use of wireless communications devices in a handheld manner while operating a motor vehicle. It defines key terms such as "handheld manner" and "hands-free accessory," and mandates that any sustained use of a wireless device must be through a hands-free accessory. The legislation outlines exceptions for emergency responders and navigation-related communications. It also revises penalty provisions, categorizing violations as noncriminal traffic infractions with escalating fines and points for repeat offenders, and allows first-time offenders to participate in a driving safety program as an alternative to penalties.

Furthermore, the bill requires all law enforcement agencies to record and maintain data on the race and ethnicity of violators, with a mandate to report this information annually to the department, which will compile and present the data to state leadership. The terminology in the reporting process is updated, changing "subsection" to "paragraph." The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
S 1152 Filed: 316.305, 316.306