Provides additional exception to prohibition on usage of wireless communication device while driving and clarifies that use for purpose of navigation must be while the device is mounted or otherwise affixed to vehicle and not held in the motorist's hand.
Summary
H5901 revises Rhode Island’s distracted-driving laws governing wireless communication devices in motor vehicles. The bill amends two sections of the General Laws: one that broadly prohibits using a wireless handset or personal wireless communication device to compose, read, or send text messages while driving, and another that prohibits holding a hand-held device to the ear to engage in a call while a vehicle is in motion. It updates definitions, clarifies what counts as “driving,” “hands-free,” “use,” and related terms, and adds/expands exceptions for emergency personnel, contacting emergency responders, parked or stopped vehicles, GPS/navigation use, and hands-free operation.
The bill also clarifies that navigation functions may be used only when the device is mounted or otherwise affixed to the vehicle, rather than held in the driver’s hand. It further adjusts penalty and enforcement provisions for violations, including fines, possible license suspension, traffic tribunal handling, and a mail-in payment process for certain charges. The act takes effect upon passage.
Impact
This bill would amend Rhode Island General Laws §§ 31-22-30 and 31-22-31, strengthening and clarifying the state’s distracted-driving framework while preserving hands-free and emergency-use exceptions. It affects motorists, law enforcement, emergency responders, and traffic tribunal procedures by refining prohibited conduct, adding a specific mounting requirement for navigation use, and updating penalties and payment options for violations.
Sentiment
The available voting history suggests the bill was generally well received, passing the House 62-1 on April 3, 2025. No committee transcript is available, but the strong vote margin indicates broad support for clarifying and tightening distracted-driving rules. The near-unanimous passage suggests lawmakers largely agreed on the need to reduce driver distraction while allowing practical exceptions for hands-free and emergency use.
Contention
The main points of contention appear to center on how far the prohibition should extend and what exceptions should be allowed. The bill narrows permissible device use by requiring navigation devices to be mounted or affixed, while also preserving exceptions for emergency personnel, emergency communications, and hands-free use. Any disagreement likely involved balancing roadway safety against convenience for drivers and operational needs for public safety workers, though the final vote indicates limited opposition.
An Act to amend and reenact § 15.2-2316.3 of the Code of Virginia and to amend the Code of Virginia by adding a section numbered 15.2-2316.4:4, relating to zoning; wireless facilities; temporary support structure.