HB 2540 Summary

• Amends 47 O.S. Section 11-901c to prohibit operating a motor vehicle while manually typing or entering multiple characters into a cellular phone or electronic communication device for texting, emailing, or instant messaging

• Applies prohibition to regular motor vehicle operators and commercial motor vehicle operators, as well as public transit drivers operating motor vehicles on any street or highway in Oklahoma

• Establishes that a stationary (non-moving) motor vehicle is exempt from the prohibition

• Provides exceptions for emergency vehicle operators performing official duties, reporting emergencies, receiving certain safety messages, using voice commands, and operating devices for purposes other than text-based communication

• Makes violation a misdemeanor punishable by a $500 fine, with enforcement by law enforcement as a secondary action only when operator has been detained for another traffic violation; becomes effective November 1, 2014