Marietta Lawmaker's Hands-Free Driving Bill Passes House

ATLANTA, GA — The Georgia House of Representatives has passed a bill by Rep. John Carson, of Marietta, which would create a hands-free driving law in Georgia.

The bill passed by a vote of 151-20.

Carson, a Republican, is chairman of a House study committee on distracted driving. His bill would prohibit drivers from holding, supporting or reaching for a cellphone or other electronic device while operating a vehicle. It also would ban drivers from texting, internet browsing or watching or recording videos while driving.

It would still allow them to use GPS navigation and voice-to-text features on their devices.

"I’m proud that my House colleagues overwhelmingly approved of the Hands-Free Georgia Act, which will surely decrease automobile accidents, prevent loss and save lives," Carson said. said Rep. "Most anywhere you go, drivers are distracted by their cell phones, and this is resulting in preventable crashes, bodily injury and fatalities. This measure would help ensure Georgia drivers are focused on the road, rather than being distracted by cell phones or other electronic devices."

Anyone convicted of violating this proposed law would be guilty of a misdemeanor and fined. First-time offenders would receive a 2-point deduction on their driver's license, with staggered points for repeat offenders.

This hands-free law would not apply while a vehicle is lawfully parked, while reporting an emergency or a hazardous road condition or to utility service providers, law enforcement officers or first responders operating within the scope of their employment.

The bill now goes to the Senate for consideration. To read House Bill 673, click here.

Photo via VoteJohnCarson.com