The "South Carolina Hands-Free and Distracted Driving Act" aims to amend existing laws regarding the use of wireless electronic communication devices while operating a motor vehicle. The bill establishes that it is unlawful for drivers to use such devices to compose, send, or read text-based communications, and introduces the offense of distracted driving with specific penalties. Notably, a second or subsequent offense of distracted driving will incur a two-point violation on the driver's record. The bill also outlines exceptions for certain situations, such as when a driver is lawfully parked, using a hands-free device, or summoning emergency assistance.

Additionally, the legislation includes provisions for law enforcement, stating that officers may only issue warnings for the first 180 days after the act's effective date. It mandates that the Department of Public Safety report demographic data on citations issued under this act, and it preempts local ordinances regarding distracted driving. The act will take effect 90 days after being approved by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
12/05/2024: 56-5-3890, 56-1-720
03/20/2025: 56-5-3890, 56-1-720
03/25/2025: 56-5-3890, 56-1-720
03/27/2025: 56-5-3890, 56-1-720
04/09/2025: 56-5-3890, 56-1-720
04/09/2025-A: 56-5-3890, 56-1-720
04/16/2025: 56-5-3890, 56-1-720
04/30/2025: 56-5-3890, 56-1-720
Latest Version: 56-5-3890, 56-1-720
12/06/2024: 56-5-3890, 56-1-720