OH SB164

Prohibits driving a motor vehicle, trackless trolley, or streetcar while text messaging or typing on a mobile communication device on any street, highway, or property open to public vehicular traffic.

Exempts emergency communications with law enforcement, hospitals, fire departments, or similar agencies, and exempts public safety vehicle operators using devices in the course of their duties.

Establishes violation as a secondary offense—law enforcement cannot stop a vehicle solely to determine or cite this violation and cannot visually inspect vehicles for this purpose.

First violation results in a $200 fine; second violation results in a $500 fine; third or subsequent violation requires 100 hours of supervised community service.

Requires mandatory six-month license suspension if the violation occurs during a motor vehicle accident, and mandates in-person court appearance (not written plea) when accident involvement is indicated on citation.