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• Introduced by Rep. Rick Nelson (D) on January 6, 2009, to prohibit anyone under age eighteen and possessing a driving permit or license from using a personal communication device while operating a motor vehicle, motorcycle or moped. The bill makes exceptions for when the vehicle operator is in pursuit of medical or law enforcement assistance. The bill defines personal communication device as one capable of audio or text communication and is not limited to cell phones or pagers. The bill provides for a fine of $20 to $100 for violations on or after January 1, 2010.
  • Referred to the House Transportation Committee on January 7, 2009.
    • Reported in the House on February 10, 2009, favorably, 1st reading, to Calendar.
    • Substitute offered in the House on February 10, 2009, to prohibit text messaging. The substitute also replaces fine penalty with requirement that violators must hold instructional permit or intermediate license at least 180 additional days for violation of this act.
    • The substitute passed in the House by voice vote on February 12, 2009.
    • Referred to the House Rules Committee on February 11, 2009.
      • Amendment offered by Rep. Steven Riggs (D) on February 11, 2009, to permit the use of a personal communication device to contact a public safety agency or while the motor vehicle, motorcycle, or moped is idling or at a complete stop.
      • The amendment passed in the House by voice vote on February 12, 2009.
• Passed in the House (69 to 25) on February 12, 2009, to prohibit anyone under age eighteen and possessing a driving permit or license from using a personal communication device while operating a motor vehicle, motorcycle or moped. The bill makes exceptions for when the vehicle operator is in pursuit of medical or law enforcement assistance. [Vote Details and Comments]
• Received in the Senate on February 13, 2009.
  • Referred to the Senate Transportation Committee on February 23, 2009.