AN ACT RELATING TO MOTOR AND OTHER VEHICLES -- MISCELLANEOUS RULES .

Texting limits and hands-free options for drivers

Effective upon passage, the law restricts wireless-device use on Rhode Island public roads, including reading, writing, or sending texts. Driving includes waiting at traffic lights or in traffic, but not being safely pulled over and stationary. Exceptions cover specified emergency-related uses, emergency personnel performing their duties, vehicles stopped legally outside traffic, and vehicles made unsafe by mechanical failure. Drivers may use devices hands-free or with a hands-free accessory. They may also turn a feature on or off with a single finger swipe or tap. To activate, view, or turn off navigation, the device must be mounted or attached for hands-free use. Pilot and escort vehicle drivers also face limits on nonemergency use of portable electronic devices. A first offense carries a $100 fine, up to 30 days of license suspension, or both. A second carries a $150 fine, up to three months of suspension, or both. Third and later offenses carry a $250 fine, up to six months of suspension, or both. The Rhode Island Traffic Tribunal hears all violations.