1/12/10-A3084 died in committee when the session ended.

5/20/09-The Senate Law and Public Safety Committee approved a bill that would make an exception from the state’s cell phone law for truck drivers to assist in national security efforts. It now moves to the full Senate.
A3084 would exempt the use of CBs and two-way radios by truck drivers from the state’s ban on hand-held communication devices while behind the wheel to assist law enforcement efforts and communicate vital information while on the job. Operators of emergency vehicles also would be granted special privilege.
New Jersey has outlawed the use of handheld communication devices while driving since spring 2008. Using such devices to talk on the phone or send text messages is a primary offense, meaning law enforcement could pull over drivers solely for using them.
If approved by the full Senate, the bill would move back to the Assembly for approval of changes before it could advance to Gov. Jon Corzine’s desk.
The Assembly version authorized truckers to use CBs without the requirement it be used to assist law enforcement efforts.
For bill status, call 609-292-4840. In New Jersey, call 800-792-8630.
An identical Senate version – S2243 – also is awaiting consideration on the Senate floor.