IL HB4846

Prohibits operating a motor vehicle on a roadway while using an electronic communication device (hand-held wireless telephone, personal digital assistant, or portable computer), with exceptions for GPS/navigation systems and vehicle-integrated devices.

Establishes tiered fines for violations: $75 for first offense, $100 for second, $125 for third, and $150 for fourth or subsequent offenses.

Creates new offense of "aggravated use of an electronic communication device" when violation causes great bodily harm, permanent disability, disfigurement, or death to another person and was a proximate cause of the injury or death.

Penalties for aggravated use include Class A misdemeanor for violations resulting in great bodily harm, disability, or disfigurement, and Class 4 felony if violation results in death.

Provides exemptions for law enforcement officers, emergency personnel, hands-free/voice-operated devices, commercial vehicle communication systems, parked vehicles, stopped traffic, and radio services.

Effective date: July 1, 2019.