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HF 340

as introduced - 90th Legislature (2017 - 2018) Posted on 01/19/2017 01:22pm

KEY: stricken = removed, old language.
underscored = added, new language.

Current Version - as introduced

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A bill for an act
relating to transportation; amending prohibition governing use of wireless
communications device; amending Minnesota Statutes 2016, section 169.475,
subdivisions 2, 3.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF MINNESOTA:

Section 1.

Minnesota Statutes 2016, section 169.475, subdivision 2, is amended to read:


Subd. 2.

Prohibition on use; penalty.

(a) No person may operate a motor vehicle while
using a wireless communications device deleted text begin to compose, read, or send an electronic message,deleted text end
when the vehicle is in motion or a part of traffic.new text begin For the purposes of this section, "using a
wireless communications device" includes: (1) composing, reading, or sending an electronic
message; (2) dialing, answering, or talking on a cellular phone; and (3) otherwise making
a cellular phone call.
new text end

(b) A person who violates paragraph (a) a second or subsequent time must pay a fine of
$225, plus the amount specified in the uniform fine schedule established by the Judicial
Council.

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective August 1, 2017, and applies to violations
committed on or after that date.
new text end

Sec. 2.

Minnesota Statutes 2016, section 169.475, subdivision 3, is amended to read:


Subd. 3.

Exceptions.

This section does not apply if a wireless communications device
is used:

(1) solely in a voice-activated or other hands-free mode;

(2) deleted text begin for making a cellular phone call;
deleted text end

deleted text begin (3)deleted text end for obtaining emergency assistance to (i) report a traffic accident, medical emergency,
or serious traffic hazard, or (ii) prevent a crime about to be committed;

deleted text begin (4)deleted text end new text begin (3)new text end in the reasonable belief that a person's life or safety is in immediate danger; or

deleted text begin (5)deleted text end new text begin (4)new text end in an authorized emergency vehicle while in the performance of official duties.

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective August 1, 2017, and applies to violations
committed on or after that date.
new text end