Public Act 096-0130
 
HB0071 Enrolled LRB096 02938 AJT 12952 b

    AN ACT concerning transportation.
 
    Be it enacted by the People of the State of Illinois,
represented in the General Assembly:
 
    Section 5. The Illinois Vehicle Code is amended by adding
Section 12-610.2 as follows:
 
    (625 ILCS 5/12-610.2 new)
    Sec. 12-610.2. Electronic communication devices.
    (a) As used in this Section:
    "Electronic communication device" means an electronic
device, including but not limited to a wireless telephone,
personal digital assistant, or a portable or mobile computer
while being used for the purpose of composing, reading, or
sending an electronic message, but does not include a global
positioning system or navigation system or a device that is
physically or electronically integrated into the motor
vehicle.
    "Electronic message" means a self-contained piece of
digital communication that is designed or intended to be
transmitted between physical devices. "Electronic message"
includes, but is not limited to electronic mail, a text
message, an instant message, or a command or request to access
an Internet site.
    (b) 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.
    (c) A violation of this Section is an offense against
traffic regulations governing the movement of vehicles.
    (d) This Section does not apply to:
        (1) a law enforcement officer or operator of an
    emergency vehicle while performing his or her official
    duties;
        (2) a driver using an electronic communication device
    for the sole purpose of reporting an emergency situation
    and continued communication with emergency personnel
    during the emergency situation;
        (3) a driver using an electronic communication device
    in hands-free or voice-activated mode; or
        (4) a driver of a commercial motor vehicle reading a
    message displayed on a permanently installed communication
    device designed for a commercial motor vehicle with a
    screen that does not exceed 10 inches tall by 10 inches
    wide in size;
        (5) a driver using an electronic communication device
    while parked on the shoulder of a roadway; or
        (6) a driver using an electronic communication device
    when the vehicle is stopped due to normal traffic being
    obstructed and the driver has the motor vehicle
    transmission in neutral or park.

Effective Date: 1/1/2010