MS HB41

Prohibits operators of moving motor vehicles from writing, sending, or reading text messages using hand-held mobile telephones, and from accessing, reading, or posting to social networking sites using such devices.

Defines "hand-held mobile telephone" to exclude voice-operated or hands-free devices, and specifies that text messages do not include emergency alerts, traffic/weather alerts, or navigation-related messages.

Establishes violations as civil offenses with a penalty of $25 for violations until July 1, 2015, and $100 for violations from July 1, 2016 onward, with no state assessments imposed.

Repeals Section 63-1-73 of the Mississippi Code, which previously prohibited texting while driving for certain license holders.

Takes effect July 1, 2015.