6/11/10-A new law strengthens existing state law banning hand-held devices while driving and adds a texting ban. It takes effect Oct. 1.
Currently, first-time offenders of the cell phone restriction get off with a warning. SB427 puts drivers on the hook for $100. Repeat offenders will pay $150 with subsequent offenses costing $200. It will no longer be an option for first offenders a waiver if they buy a hands-free device.
To encourage police to ticket offenders, the law sends 25 percent of fines to the municipality where the summons is issued. State government claims the rest.