Massachusetts Senate Announces Bill Banning Hand-Held Cell Phone Use While Driving

BOSTON—Those using cell phones and other mobile devices while driving in Massachusetts may have to use “hands-free” mode.

The Massachusetts Senate announced Monday that it passed legislation on Thursday that bans all hand-operated use of mobile devices while operating a motor vehicle. The use of mobile devices for GPS and telephone call functions is still permissible under state law so long as they are used in “hands-free” mode.

The House of Representatives is currently working on similar legislation. If it’s passed by the House and and signed by Governor Charlie Baker, it will become law.

“This is a public safety issue in the Commonwealth that, in too many tragic cases, means the difference between life and death,” said Senator Jason Lewis in Monday’s release. “Banning the use of handheld devices while driving will significantly diminish distracted driving and ultimately make our roads safer and save lives. One of the primary responsibilities of government is to protect public safety; as such, I’m pleased to have supported this legislation.”

According to the release, penalties result from operating a vehicle while holding a mobile electronic device to, or in proximity of, a person’s head.

The Massachusetts Legislature passed a bill in 2010 which banned texting while driving. The law also banned handheld use for drivers under 18 years of age. According to the National Safety Council, distracted driving accounted for 26 percent or approximately 7,800 of the 30,000 lives lost in auto accidents in 2013.

The Commonwealth would join 14 other states that ban the use of handheld devices for all drivers. 46 states currently band texting while driving.

Initial violations result in a $100 fine, second-time offenses result in a $250 fine and subsequent offenses result in a $500 fine.