5/2/08-A bill has died that sought to prohibit drivers from using wireless communication devices, such as hand-held cell phones, while driving.
Drivers would have been prohibited from using the devices while behind the wheel. Talking on a phone equipped with a “hands-free” accessory would still have been permitted.
Sponsored by Sen. Mike Bennett, R-Bradenton, S1266 would have made it a secondary offense to drive while chatting – meaning a person would have to be pulled over for another violation, such as speeding, before they could be ticketed for talking on the phone. It also would have prohibited drivers from text messaging.
Emergency calls would have been exempted.
The House version – HB357 – also died.

3/12/08-A bill in the Senate would prohibit drivers from using wireless communication devices, such as hand-held cell phones, while driving.
Drivers would be prohibited from using the devices while behind the wheel. Talking on a phone equipped with a “hands-free” accessory would still be permitted.
Sponsored by Sen.Mike Bennett, R-Bradenton, S1266 would make it a secondary offense to drive while chatting – meaning a person would have to be pulled over for another violation, such as speeding, before they could be ticketed for talking on the phone. It also would prohibit drivers from text messaging.
Emergency calls would be exempted.
The bill is in three committees in the Senate. An identical House bill – HB357 – also is in committee.
For bill status, call (850) 488-4371. In Florida, call 1-800-342-1827.