4/1/08-A bill has died in the House that was intended to cut down on drivers who use mobile devices to chat while behind the wheel.
Maryland law now prohibits drivers under 18 who hold learner’s permits or provisional licenses from talking on hand-held cell phones.
Sponsored by Delegate Jeffrey Waldstreicher, D-Montgomery, HB1110 would have made it illegal for all drivers to operate a motor vehicle while writing, typing, viewing or sending text messages on a mobile telecommunications device, such as a BlackBerry.
Talking on cell phones would still have been permitted. Waldstreicher said “texting” is more dangerous than using a phone because it takes drivers’ eyes off the road.
Offenders to the texting ban would have faced up to $250 fines. Exceptions would have been made for emergencies. Of particular interest to truckers, the bill also would have made exceptions for Qualcomm-type devices.

2/15/08-A bill in the House Environmental Matters Committee is intended to cut down on drivers who use mobile devices to chat while behind the wheel.
Maryland law now prohibits drivers under 18 who hold learner’s permits or provisional licenses from talking on hand-held cell phones.
Sponsored by Delegate Jeffrey Waldstreicher, D-Montgomery, HB1110 would make it illegal for all drivers to operate a motor vehicle while writing, typing, viewing or sending text messages on a mobile telecommunications device, such as a BlackBerry.
Talking on cell phones would still be permitted. Waldstreicher said “texting” is more dangerous than using a phone because it takes drivers’ eyes off the road.
Offenders to the texting ban would face up to $250 fines. Exceptions would be made for emergencies. Of particular interest to truckers, the bill also would make exceptions for Qualcomm-type devices.
For bill status, call (410) 946-5400.