CT SB00961

Prohibits operating a motor vehicle while using a hand-held mobile telephone to engage in a call or while using a mobile electronic device; also prohibits typing, sending, or reading text messages while the vehicle is in motion, effective October 1, 2011.

Exempts emergency calls, law enforcement and emergency personnel in the performance of their duties, and hands-free mobile telephone use from the hand-held mobile telephone prohibition.

Imposes fines of $100 for a first violation, $150 for a second violation, and $200 for a third or subsequent violation of the hand-held mobile telephone prohibition.

Requires law enforcement officers to seize and impound hand-held mobile telephones or mobile electronic devices for 48 hours following issuance of a summons for violations of the cellular telephone ban.

Provides that municipalities receive 25% of fines collected from summonses issued for violations of this section, with court officials certifying amounts due quarterly to the Comptroller.