LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – At the end June, drivers who use cell phones behind the wheel could face more penalties after Governor Whitmer signed distracted driving legislation into effect this week. 

“I’m proud to sign today’s legislation to reduce distracted driving in Michigan. Too many Michiganders have lost loved ones to distracted driving, and everyone should be safe on their way to school, home, or work,” said Governor Whitmer. “We developed our last Strategic Highway Safety Plan in 2019 and already we have seen a reduction in the number of fatalities caused by distracted driving. These bills are another step toward reducing that number even further. Our goal is to see zero traffic deaths by 2050 and I know that by working together we can get it done.”

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The law, which targets cell phone use while driving, does not apply to hands-free Bluetooth devices. 

According to Gov. Whitmer, the bills would ban the use of a phone while driving, including for uses such as sending texts, watching or recording videos, or engaging with social media. 

“This will reduce distracted driving crashes that have taken too many lives and shattered so many families across Michigan,” she said. 

Governor Whitmer signed House Bills 4250, 4251, and 4252 which were sponsored by state Representatives Matt Koleszar (D-Plymouth), Tyrone Carter (D-Detroit), and Mike Mueller (R-Linden). 

“This legislation is about changing the culture for our young drivers and saving lives,” House Bill 4252 sponsor and Representative Mueller said. With progressing technology, the new law will reinforce good driving practices, which will ultimately lead to safer roads for all drivers. Other states that have enacted these policies have seen proven drops in vehicle collision fatalities.”

Under HB 4252, the state is required to complete a roughly two year study reviewing the application of the law, and its use on certain demographic populations.  Furthermore, the law would be up for review in five years, in which lawmakers would be able to extend or end it. 

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The only exceptions for using phones in a non-handsfree way would be to make emergency calls, report a traffic crash, medical emergency, or report a crime taking place, which would allow first responders to continue using their phones while on the job.  Otherwise, individuals would need to pull off the road and have their vehicle be completely stopped. 

Michigan will join more than 20 other states with similar hands free cell use including: Arizona, California, Indiana, Nevada, Tennessee, and Washington.