Madison, IN Sunny intervals 70°
Listen Live

Bill Targets Distracted Drivers By Outlawing Any Handling Of Phones, Devices While Driving

No if, and's or buts about it

 Indiana could soon be the next state to ban drivers from actually holding their phones while behind the wheel.

State Rep. Jim Pressel (R-Rolling Prairie) is pushing ahead with a hands free cell phone law. He says his plan, House Bill 1340, would clarify any questions about Indiana's no texting law.

Pressel's plan would allow police to ticket anyone who is holding their phone or other electronic communication device, even if they are using a speaker phone, while driving. Any driver caught in violation would be slapped with a ticket for a class C infraction, punishable with a fine up to $500.

The bill would also allow certain government entities to hire third party companies to use video cameras to enforce speed limits in construction zones or catch drivers ignoring school bus stop arms regulations.

Additionally, school buses could be prohibited from picking up or dropping off students at locations which require crossing a state highway or busy city or county highways. Drivers who do so could be ticketed for a class D infraction. A senate bill which creates similar restrictions on school bus stops and allows harsher penalties for drivers who ignore stop arms passed the Senate Judiciary Committee on February 6.

HB 1340 is currently awaiting a vote in the House Roads and Transportation Committee.

More from Local News

Events

Local News

Averitt To Invest up to $113 Million To Build Regional Campus in Bullitt County

Distribution and supply chain leader will add 64 jobs while retaining 182 jobs at existing Louisville plant

Displate Manufacturing To Establish First Kentucky Operation in Louisville With $9.5 Million Investment, Creating 79 Jobs

New facility will strengthen company’s expansion into the North American market

Kentucky's Attorney General Launches Law Enforcement Peer Support Grant Application

Address chronic stress and promote officer mental health

Local Sports

Personal Branding Activities Approved, High School Basketball Shot Clock Proposal Fails

The Board of Directors voted on both measures this week.

Kring Resigns After Four Years As Shawe Girls Coach

He was 59-32 in four seasons with the Hilltoppers

Pairings Revealed for IHSAA Softball State Tournament

Last season, Franklin County and Milan were the only local teams to advance out of the sectional.