7/9/08-A bill in the Senate Ethics and Rules Committee would prohibit drivers in the state from talking on hand-held cell phones and text messaging while driving. The House already approved it.
H4477 would make it a primary offense for drivers to use hand-held mobile devices for talking or texting while behind the wheel. The distinction would allow law enforcement to pull over drivers without another reason.
Talking on a phone equipped with a hands-free accessory would still be permitted. Drivers still could use their hands to dial and hang up the phone, as long as they use an earpiece or speakerphone during their calls.
Drivers older than 18 found in violation would face $100 fines. Repeat offenders would face $250 fines and subsequent violations could result in $500 fines.
New teen drivers with junior operator licenses also would be prohibited from using hands-free devices. Youngsters found in violation would face fines and the suspension of their licenses.
A one-time $600 insurance surcharge would be applied for all violators on a first offense.
For bill status, call (617) 722-2356.

1/25/08-The House voted 107-47 to approve a bill that would prohibit drivers in the state from talking on hand-held cell phones and text messaging while driving. It now moves to the Senate for further consideration.
H4477 would make it a primary offense for drivers to use hand-held mobile devices for talking or texting while behind the wheel. The distinction would allow law enforcement to pull over drivers without another reason.
Talking on a phone equipped with a hands-free accessory would still be permitted. Drivers still could use their hands to dial and hang up the phone, as long as they use an earpiece or speakerphone during their calls.
Drivers older than 18 found in violation would face $100 fines. Repeat offenders would face $250 fines and subsequent violations could result in $500 fines.
New teen drivers with junior operator licenses also would be prohibited from using hands-free devices. Youngsters found in violation would face fines and the suspension of their licenses.
A provision added to the bill on the House floor would allow for a one-time $600 insurance surcharge for all violators on a first offense.
H4477 is awaiting assignment to committee in the Senate. For bill status, call (617) 722-2356.

1/18/08-To improve safety on Massachusetts roadways, a bill in the state’s House would prohibit drivers in the state from talking on hand-held cell phones and text messaging while driving.
The Joint Committee on Transportation advanced a bill to the House floor that would make it a primary offense for drivers to use hand-held mobile devices for talking or texting while behind the wheel. The distinction would allow law enforcement to pull over drivers without another reason.
Talking on a phone equipped with a hands-free accessory would still be permitted.
Drivers older than 18 found in violation would face $100 fines. Repeat offenders would face $250 fines and subsequent violations could result in $500 fines.
New teen drivers with junior operator licenses found in violation would face fines and the suspension of their licenses.
H4477 is awaiting consideration on the House floor. If approved there, it would move to the Senate for further discussion.
For House bill status, call (617) 722-2356.