96TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY
State of Illinois
2009 and 2010
SB0273

 

Introduced 2/6/2009, by Sen. Michael W. Frerichs - Pamela J. Althoff

 

SYNOPSIS AS INTRODUCED:
 
625 ILCS 5/12-610.2 new

    Amends the Illinois Vehicle Code. Provides that a person may not operate a motor vehicle on a roadway while using an electronic communication device to compose, send, or read an electronic message. Provides that a violation is an offense against traffic regulations governing the movement of vehicles. Sets forth exceptions.


LRB096 06266 AJT 16349 b

 

 

A BILL FOR

 

SB0273 LRB096 06266 AJT 16349 b

1     AN ACT concerning transportation.
 
2     Be it enacted by the People of the State of Illinois,
3 represented in the General Assembly:
 
4     Section 5. The Illinois Vehicle Code is amended by adding
5 Section 12-610.2 as follows:
 
6     (625 ILCS 5/12-610.2 new)
7     Sec. 12-610.2. Electronic communication devices.
8     (a) As used in this Section:
9     "Electronic communication device" means an electronic
10 device, including but not limited to a wireless telephone,
11 personal digital assistant, or a portable or mobile computer
12 while being used for the purpose of composing, reading, or
13 sending an electronic message, but does not include a global
14 positioning system or navigation system when the system is used
15 exclusively for navigation purposes.
16     "Electronic message" means a self-contained piece of
17 digital communication that is designed or intended to be
18 transmitted between physical devices. "Electronic message"
19 includes, but is not limited to electronic mail, a text
20 message, an instant message, or a command or request to access
21 an Internet site.
22     (b) A person may not operate a motor vehicle on a roadway
23 while using an electronic communication device to compose,

 

 

SB0273 - 2 - LRB096 06266 AJT 16349 b

1 send, or read an electronic message.
2     (c) A violation of this Section is an offense against
3 traffic regulations governing the movement of vehicles.
4     (d) This Section does not apply to:
5         (1) a law enforcement officer or operator of an
6     emergency vehicle while performing his or her official
7     duties;
8         (2) a driver using an electronic communication device
9     for the sole purpose of reporting an emergency situation
10     and continued communication with emergency personnel
11     during the emergency situation; or
12         (3) a driver using an electronic communication device
13     solely in voice-activated mode.