AR HB1820

Amends the definition of "serious traffic violation" to include driving while texting as a violation for commercial motor vehicle operators.

Adds new definitions for commercial driver licensing categories including "nonexcepted interstate," "excepted interstate," "nonexcepted intrastate," and "excepted intrastate" drivers, effective January 30, 2012.

Requires commercial driver license applicants certifying as nonexcepted interstate or nonexcepted intrastate to provide medical examiner's certificates; establishes procedures for downgrading licenses if medical certification expires or is not maintained.

Prohibits Arkansas courts from granting restricted driving permits for commercial motor vehicle operation.

Creates new section 27-23-130 prohibiting commercial motor vehicle drivers from texting while driving, with exceptions for emergency communications and defining "texting" and "driving" for enforcement purposes.