MS SB2155

Creates Section 63-3-1217 of Mississippi Code to prohibit operating a motor vehicle on a highway while manually typing, sending, or reading text-based communications on a wireless device while the vehicle is in motion.

Defines "wireless communication device" to include cellular phones, personal digital assistants, and text-messaging devices, but excludes voice-operated devices that do not require hand use except to activate features.

Provides exemptions for law enforcement, emergency vehicles, reporting hazardous situations, parked vehicles, emergency communications, vehicle navigation systems, and vehicle diagnostic systems.

Establishes violation penalties of up to $500 for standard violations and up to $1,000 additional fine if texting while driving contributed to a motor vehicle accident.

Requires law enforcement to report wireless device use on accident reports and allows officers to treat violations as the primary basis for citations; convictions must be entered on driving records and takes effect July 1, 2013.