Bill > HB1607

This bill amends Mississippi Code Section 63-33-1 to prohibit drivers of moving motor vehicles from physically holding or supporting a hand-held mobile telephone, and from writing, sending, reading, or posting to a social networking site using such a device while driving. A "hand-held mobile telephone" is defined as a portable electronic device used for calls or text messages that requires at least one hand to operate, excluding voice-operated or hands-free devices. A "text message" is broadly defined to include text-based messages, instant messages, electronic messages, and emails, but excludes emergency alerts or messages related to vehicle operation or navigation. Violations are civil offenses, with penalties of $25 for offenses before July 1, 2016, and $100 for offenses on or after that date, with no additional state assessments. The Department of Public Safety will maintain records of citations issued under this law.

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https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2026/pdf/history/HB/HB1607.xml