Signed by Governor Nathan Deal

Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to concur with Senate amendments and pass a bill that prohibits using handheld electronic devices while driving.

Highlights:

• Prohibits physically holding an electronic device while driving unless it is being used to navigate the vehicle or for global positioning system (GPS) purposes (Sec. 4).

• Prohibits writing, sending, or reading any text-based communication, including a text message, email, or website while driving (Sec. 4).

• Prohibits watching a video or movie on any device, regardless of whether it’s being held, while driving (Sec. 4).  

• Prohibits recording or broadcasting a video while driving unless the device is used for the sole purpose of continuously recording or broadcasting video within or outside of the vehicle (Sec. 4).

• Authorizes the use of voice-recognition technology to send a message while driving (Sec. 4).

• Authorizes the use of an earpiece, headphone device, or device worn on a wrist to conduct voice-based communication while driving (Sec. 4).

• Authorizes the use of radios, emergency communication services, medical equipment, or in-vehicle security, navigation, or remote diagnostics systems while driving (Sec. 4).

• Specifies that none of these provisions apply when a vehicle is lawfully parked (Sec. 4).

• Establishes a fine of $50 for a first offense, $100 for a second, and $150 for any subsequent offense within a 2-year period (Sec. 4).

• Specifies that these provisions do not apply to the following (Sec. 4):

• Drivers reporting an accident, crime, or serious threat to traffic or public safety;

• Commercial truck drivers using a 2-way radio;

• Utility services responding to a utility emergency; and

• Law enforcement, firefighters, ambulance drivers or other public safety personnel.

Full Bill Text