The bill amends Section 31-22-30 of the General Laws in Chapter 31-22, changing the title to "Text messaging while operating a motor vehicle Distracted driving prohibited while operating a motor vehicle." It expands the definition of prohibited activities while driving to include not just text messaging but any use of a wireless handset or personal wireless communication device that is not hands-free. The bill clarifies the meaning of terms such as "driving," "hands-free," and "motor vehicle," and updates the definition of "wireless handset" to include "mobile devices" instead of just "cellular telephones." It also specifies that "text message" includes various forms of electronic messages.

The bill outlines exceptions to the prohibition, such as for law enforcement and emergency personnel, and for individuals using a device while the vehicle is parked or inoperable. It also allows for the use of navigation devices if they are mounted or affixed to the vehicle to allow for hands-free operation. The penalties for violating the provisions include fines and potential license suspensions, with increasing severity for repeat offenses. The bill states that all violations will be heard in the Rhode Island traffic tribunal and that the act will take effect upon passage. Additionally, the bill emphasizes that the use of a wireless communication device for navigation must be while the device is mounted or affixed to the vehicle, not held in the driver's hand.

Statutes affected:
898: 31-22-30