This bill amends Section 31-22-30 of the General Laws to prohibit text messaging while operating a motor vehicle. It defines terms such as "driving," "hands free," "inoperability," "motor vehicle," "person," "personal wireless communication device," "stopped," "text message," and "wireless handset." The bill also provides exceptions to the prohibition, such as for law enforcement and emergency services officials, and for using a wireless handset or personal wireless communication device while the vehicle is parked or stopped due to inoperability. Violations of this prohibition would result in fines or license suspensions. The bill also clarifies that the use of a wireless communication device for navigation purposes must be done while the device is mounted or otherwise affixed to the vehicle.

Statutes affected:
898: 31-22-30