Bill > S2032

This bill aims to prohibit the use of mobile telephones while operating a motor vehicle by amending existing Massachusetts law. Specifically, it proposes to change the definition of what constitutes a "mobile telephone" in certain contexts to "hands-free mobile telephone," meaning a device that can be used without the driver holding it. The bill also introduces a new subsection that generally forbids drivers from using a mobile telephone or mobile electronic device for voice communications unless it's hands-free or used to activate a feature. However, it provides an affirmative defense for drivers if they can prove the use of their mobile telephone was for an emergency, defined as needing to report a disabled vehicle, requiring medical or police assistance, ensuring public safety, or noting a disabled vehicle or accident on the road.