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FL H1469

Bill

Status

Introduced

1/7/2024

Primary Sponsor

Allison Tant

Click for details

Origin

House of Representatives

2024 Regular Session

AI Summary

  • Prohibits operating a motor vehicle while using a wireless communications device in a handheld manner, expanding Florida's existing texting-while-driving ban to cover all handheld device use including calls, video, data entry, and internet access
  • Allows brief handheld contact to activate, deactivate, initiate, or terminate a device feature, but requires all sustained use to be conducted through a hands-free accessory; stationary vehicles are exempt from the prohibition
  • Renames the law from the "Florida Ban on Texting While Driving Law" to the "Anthony Branca and Anita Neal Act" and removes the separate school zone and work zone handheld device provisions in s. 316.306, instead applying the general handheld ban with enhanced penalties (moving violation plus 3 points on license) for violations in those zones
  • First-time school/work zone violators may elect to participate in a wireless device driving safety program or show proof of hands-free equipment purchase to have penalties waived or the case dismissed
  • First general violation is a nonmoving infraction; second or subsequent violation within 5 years is a moving violation, with an effective date of July 1, 2024

Legislative Description

Hands-free Driving

Last Action

Died on Second Reading Calendar

3/8/2024

Committee Referrals

Infrastructure Strategies Committee2/5/2024
Infrastructure and Tourism Appropriations Subcommittee1/31/2024
Transportation & Modals Subcommittee1/13/2024

Full Bill Text

No bill text available