FL H0323

Prohibits operating a motor vehicle on a roadway while using an electronic communications device to compose, send, read, or view text-based communications, including text messaging, e-mail, instant messaging, paging, and Internet site requests.

Exempts police officers, emergency medical services personnel performing official duties, persons requesting medical/emergency assistance, persons reporting illegal activity or traffic hazards, Armed Forces members operating military vehicles, and persons in parked or shoulder-lane vehicles.

Clarifies the law does not authorize seizure and forfeiture of electronic communications devices unless otherwise provided by law.

Establishes violation as a noncriminal traffic infraction punishable as a nonmoving violation under chapter 318.

Effective date: July 1, 2010.