MS HB42

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 hand-held 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 messages related to vehicle operation

Establishes violations as civil offenses with penalties of $25 for violations through June 30, 2015, and $100 for violations from July 1, 2016 onward

Repeals Section 63-1-73 of Mississippi Code of 1972, which previously prohibited texting while driving for certain license holders

Takes effect July 1, 2015