MS HB291

Prohibits drivers from physically holding or supporting a hand-held mobile telephone while writing, sending, or reading text messages or accessing social networking sites

Reclassifies texting while driving from a civil violation to a traffic violation, meaning convictions will appear on driving records

Increases the fine from the previous $25-$100 tiered structure to a flat $100 fine for each violation

Requires the Department of Public Safety to maintain records of citations including the age and race of the driver, any additional traffic violations, and whether a crash or damage occurred

Takes effect July 1, 2026