The bill amends Sections 31-22-30 and 31-22-31 of the General Laws in Chapter 31-22, which address distracted driving and mobile telephone usage by motor vehicle operators. It prohibits the use of a wireless handset or personal wireless communication device for composing, reading, or sending text messages while driving, with exceptions for hands-free operation and for navigation devices that are mounted or otherwise affixed to the vehicle. The bill introduces a new provision allowing for the use of a personal wireless communication device in a hands-free manner with minimal physical interaction, such as a single swipe or tap.

Additionally, the bill revises the penalties for violations of these provisions, removing the possibility of license suspension and instead imposing fines for first, second, and subsequent offenses. Specifically, a first offense incurs a fine of $100, a second offense incurs a fine of $150, and a third or subsequent offense incurs a fine of $250. The bill also establishes a process for offenders to resolve charges without appearing in court, allowing them to pay fines by mail. The act is set to take effect upon passage, aiming to enhance road safety by reducing distractions caused by mobile device usage while driving.

Statutes affected:
576: 31-22-30