Currently, drivers under 19 and school bus drivers aren’t allowed to use cell phones while driving, and in Chicago hands-free devices are required and text messaging while driving is prohibited. There also bills being deliberated, such as House Bill 71 which would outlaw text messaging while driving, and House Bill 72 which would ban drivers from using cell phones in school and construction zones, both of which are currently under review by the governor.
THE PENDING LEGISLATION
Amends the Illinois Vehicle Code. Provides that a person may not operate a motor vehicle on a roadway while using an electronic communication device to compose, send, or read an electronic message. Provides that a violation is an offense against traffic regulations governing the movement of vehicles. Sets forth exceptions.
Amends the Illinois Vehicle Code. Provides that a person, regardless of age, may not use a wireless telephone in a school speed zone or a construction or maintenance speed zone, except for a person engaged in a highway construction or maintenance project for which a construction or maintenance speed zone has been established when the person is using a wireless telephone in furtherance of that project.
