This bill amends South Dakota's existing 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. The bill specifies that violations of this provision are classified as a Class 2 misdemeanor.

The amendments clarify the exceptions to this rule, which include public safety responders performing their official duties, the use of mobile devices for emergency communications, and the use of navigation systems, provided that the operator does not manually enter information while driving. Additionally, the bill introduces a new provision allowing operators of agricultural equipment, which is not designed to exceed twenty-five miles per hour, to hold a mobile electronic device in their hand while driving. The bill also removes previous language that allowed for certain manual operations of mobile devices while driving.

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