The "South Carolina Hands-Free and Distracted Driving Act" aims to enhance road safety by prohibiting the use of wireless electronic communication devices while operating a motor vehicle. The bill amends Section 56-5-3890 to define terms related to hands-free devices and outlines specific unlawful actions, such as composing, sending, or reading text-based communications while driving. It establishes the offense of distracted driving, with penalties including fines and points assessed against the driver's record for repeat offenses. Notably, the act specifies that law enforcement officers will issue only warnings for the first 180 days after the law's effective date, and it mandates the Department of Transportation to notify motorists of the hands-free requirements at interstate highway entrances.

Additionally, the bill amends Section 56-1-720 to classify a second or subsequent offense of distracted driving as a two-point violation. It also includes provisions that prevent local governments from enacting conflicting ordinances and requires the Department of Public Safety to report demographic data on citations issued under this act. The act emphasizes that violations will not be recorded on the offender's motor vehicle or criminal records, and custodial arrests for violations will only occur under specific circumstances. The act will take effect upon the Governor's approval.

Statutes affected:
12/11/2024: 56-5-3890, 56-1-720
Latest Version: 56-5-3890, 56-1-720