Signed by Governor Ted Kulongoski

Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that bans cell phone use without a "hands free accessory" while driving (with certain exceptions).

Highlights:

-Requires a "hands-free accessory" for legal use of a mobile communications device while driving (Sec. 1). -Makes exceptions for those who use mobile devices for employment purposes, emergency services, or emergency situations (Sec. 1). -Bans any cell phone use for those under age 18, even if they are using a hands-free accessory; makes exceptions for emergency situations (Sec. 1). -Establishes violations as Class D traffic violations (Sec. 1).

Full Bill Text

Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that prohibits individuals, regardless of age, from using a handheld mobile communication device while operating a motor vehicle, whereas existing law only applies this prohibition to individuals under the age of 18.

Highlights:

-Classifies a violation of this statute as a primary offense, thereby authorizing law enforcement to detain and issue a citation to individuals solely for violating this statute and without having to identify a separate offense first (Sec. 1). -Classifies a violation of this statute as a Class D traffic infraction, punishable by a fine of up to $90 (Sec. 1). -Exempts the following from the prohibition (Sec. 1):

-Individuals that are 18 years of age or older and using a hands-free device; -Individuals summoning medical or other emergency help if no other individual in the vehicle is capable of doing so; -Individuals using a mobile communication device for the purpose of farming or agricultural operations; -Individuals operating an ambulance or emergency vehicle; -Individuals operating a motor vehicle while providing public safety services or emergency services as a volunteer; -Individuals operating a motor vehicle while acting in the scope of their employment as a public safety officer; -Individuals operating a motor vehicle in the scope of their employment if operating the motor vehicle is necessary for their job; -Individuals activating or deactivating a mobile communication device; and -Individuals using a function of a mobile communication device that allows for only one-way voice communication while operating a motor vehicle in the scope of their employment, while providing transit services to individuals with disabilities or senior citizens, or while participating in public safety or emergency service activities.

Full Bill Text