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Panel backs higher fines for handheld-device use in school and work zones
Summary
SB 2801 would double school/work-zone handheld-device fines and raise civil fines elsewhere, with potential penalties up to $500 depending on circumstances; members debated whether stronger penalties should apply when texting leads to serious injury or death and where fine revenue should be directed.
Senator Sparks (S3) summarized SB 2801 as a bill to increase penalties for handheld mobile-device violations in school and work zones and to raise civil penalties elsewhere on the highway. Under current law the school/work-zone fine is $100; the bill would raise that to $200 and increase civil fines in other locations from $25 to $100, with potential escalations up to $500 in some cases.
Members discussed enforcement, whether these violations are a primary or secondary offense compared with other states, and whether stronger penalties are warranted for crashes causing serious injury or death. One member described a fatal crash in which a 17-year-old was killed to argue for tougher measures. Another member asked where increased fine revenue would be deposited; the chair suggested the funds likely go to the general fund unless the bill specifies otherwise.
After questions from members and discussion about enforcement and allocation of funds, the committee approved the bill by voice vote.
