Law Banning Hand-Held Devices When Driving Proposed In PA

HARRISBURG, PA — Legislation introduced in the state House could lead to a ban on hand-held devices while driving.

A bipartisan effort led by Republican Rosemary Brown, who represents portions of Monroe and Pike counties, and Democrat Steve Malagari of Montgomery County, would mandate that communications devices in vehicles must be hands-free with the use of Bluetooth or a docking station. Drivers would not be permitted to hold their communication device while operating a vehicle.

“While cellphones and other interactive communication devices do enable us to keep in touch with our families and work while we’re on the go, it is always important to keep in mind that there are times and places to use them,” Brown said. The best cellphone use while driving is still no
said in cellphone use; however, (the bill) works to balance the use of technology while increasing this driver responsibility.”

If enacted into law, the bill would:

• Make driving a vehicle while holding or supporting any electronic wireless device, regardless of the driver’s age a primary offense that carries a $100 fine.
• Increase the fine for texting while driving from $50 to $100.
• Require a person under the age of 18 prior to taking a driver’s exam to view educational materials provided on PennDOT’s site on the dangers of distracted driving.
• Require the portion of the examination on traffic laws to contain at least one question on distracted driving.

“This legislation is reasonable, realistic and works to cultivate safer driving behaviors with cell phone use, all of which is possible for us to do to help protect each other,” Brown said.