House Bill No. by Representative Bayham aims to enhance pedestrian safety by prohibiting the use of wireless telecommunications devices, such as cell phones, in a manner that requires visual attention while crossing marked crosswalks. The bill amends existing law by adding a new subsection (E) to R.S. 32:212, which specifies that pedestrians must not operate such devices in a way that distracts them visually while in a crosswalk. However, it allows for exceptions, such as continuing a phone call without visual attention, reporting emergencies, dialing 911, or using a GPS for navigation.

The bill establishes a misdemeanor penalty of $25 for violations of this new provision. Additionally, it clarifies that the existing rights and obligations of pedestrians in crosswalks remain intact, while also making technical changes to the language of the law. Overall, the legislation seeks to reduce accidents and improve safety for pedestrians by discouraging distractions from cell phone use while crossing streets.

Statutes affected:
HB309 Original: 32:212(C)