House Bill 273 Summary

• Prohibits any person from operating a motor vehicle on public roads while using a wireless communication device to send or receive written messages, effective July 1, 2015.

• Defines "wireless communication device" as any device using commercial mobile service, including cellular telephones and personal digital assistants.

• Exempts law enforcement, emergency vehicle drivers, parked vehicles, and emergency communications to 911, hospitals, ambulance services, fire departments, or law enforcement agencies.

• Violations are misdemeanors punishable by fines up to $500, or up to $1,000 if the violation occurs during a motor vehicle accident.

• Requires law enforcement officers to document wireless device use on accident reports when cited during an accident.