HB 4997 Summary

• Expands the prohibition on handheld device use while driving to include handling GPS units or using GPS applications, in addition to existing text messaging restrictions.

• Establishes tiered penalties: first violation of general texting ban is a $100 civil infraction; violations of commercial vehicle/school bus restrictions or second violations escalate to $200 civil infractions and potential misdemeanor charges.

• Criminal penalties for second and subsequent violations include up to 93 days imprisonment or fines up to $500-$1,000 for misdemeanors, and up to 2 years imprisonment or $5,000 fines for felony third or subsequent violations.

• Permits use of hands-free technology, single-button call answering, and device use for emergency reporting, law enforcement duties, or testing automated vehicles.

• Removes language exempting affixed GPS/navigation systems from restrictions, clarifying that handheld GPS units are now prohibited while driving.