HB74 Summary

• Prohibits drivers from writing, sending, or reading text-based communications; watching, recording, or capturing photographs or videos; engaging in voice-based communication on handheld devices; or physically holding wireless telecommunications devices while operating motor vehicles on public roads.

• Establishes fines of $100 for first violation, $200 for second violation, and $300 for third or subsequent violation; creates two-point driving record violation for first and second convictions, and three-point violation for third or subsequent convictions.

• Provides exemptions for emergency calls, hands-free devices, GPS navigation (excluding manual input while driving), law enforcement and emergency responders, utility service workers, licensed physicians responding to emergencies, and transportation network company (TNC) drivers using mounted devices with single-swipe activation.

• Requires uniform accident reports to indicate whether a TNC driver was involved and mandates the Alabama State Law Enforcement Agency to annually report accident statistics involving TNC drivers to the Public Service Commission and Legislature.

• Becomes effective on the first day of the third month following passage and approval by the Governor.