The bill amends South Dakota's law regarding the use of mobile electronic devices while driving. It establishes that, with certain exceptions, individuals are prohibited from operating a motor vehicle while using a mobile electronic device unless the device is in hands-free mode. A violation of this law is classified as a Class 2 misdemeanor. The bill outlines specific exceptions to this rule, including the use of mobile devices by public safety responders during their official duties, for emergency communications, and for navigation purposes, while clarifying that manually entering information into navigation systems is not permitted.

Additionally, the bill removes previous language that allowed for certain uses of mobile devices, such as reading or entering phone numbers for calls, and introduces a new provision permitting the use of mobile devices held in hand while driving agricultural equipment that is not designed to exceed twenty-five miles per hour. This change aims to balance safety concerns with the practical needs of agricultural operators.

Statutes affected:
Introduced, 01/28/2025: 32-26-47.1
House Transportation Engrossed, 02/06/2025: 32-26-47.1