This bill amends the existing law regarding the use of wireless telephones and electronic communication devices while operating a motor vehicle. It reduces the time period during which prior offenses can be considered for sentencing purposes from ten years to three years for both second and third offenses. This means that if a driver commits a second offense more than three years after the first, they will be treated as a first-time offender for sentencing. Similarly, if a third offense occurs more than three years after the second, the driver will be treated as a second-time offender.

Additionally, the bill introduces a provision that allows individuals who commit a first violation and successfully complete an approved motor vehicle defensive driving course to have that offense removed from their driving record. This change aims to encourage safe driving practices and provide a pathway for first-time offenders to mitigate the impact of their violation on their driving history.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 39:4-97.3