Florida Governor Ron DeSantis today signed CS/HB 107. The law, which goes into effect July 1, authorizes the enforcement of texting while driving as a primary offense.
Additionally, the bill specifies that a person may not use a handheld wireless communications device while driving in a designated sensitive area such as a school crossing, school zone, or work zone area while workers are present or operating equipment.
“Throughout our state, we’ve seen far too many accidents where passengers are killed or severely injured as a result of distracted drivers,” said Governor DeSantis. “This bill gives law enforcement the ability to better enforce distractions behind the wheel. We cannot prevent all accidents on our roadways, but it is our hope that by taking action to address distractions today, we might be able to prevent a tragedy tomorrow.”
“We have a responsibility to all Floridians to limit distractions that cause tragedies on our roads,” said Lieutenant Governor JeanetteNuñez. “This bill is about protecting our residents and preventing as many accidents as possible through smart enforcement and I’m proud to stand with the Governor in this effort.”
“Today’s bill signing is a victory for the families and loved ones of those we’ve lost in traffic accidents,” said Senator Wilton Simpson. “I thank the Governor for his support of this bill and for taking action to enforce distracted driving violations.”
“I want to thank Governor DeSantis and Senator Simpson for their support and dedication to making this law a reality,” said Representative Jackie Toledo. “As a mother, the safety of our children and our communities is paramount. This bill is about saving lives by preventing accidents caused by texting while driving among other distractions on our roads.”
