Vehicles: electronic wireless communication devices.

Under existing law, it is an infraction for a person to drive a motor vehicle while holding and operating a handheld wireless telephone or electronic wireless communications device, unless the device is specifically designed and configured to allow voice-operated and hands-free operation, and it is used in that manner while driving. Notwithstanding those provisions, existing law makes it an infraction for a person under 18 years of age to drive a motor vehicle while using a wireless telephone or an electronic wireless communications device, even if equipped with a hands-free device. This bill would instead make it an infraction for a person under 21 years of age to drive a motor vehicle while using a wireless telephone or an electronic wireless communications device, even if equipped with a hands-free device. The bill would create an exception to that prohibition for a person 18 to 20 years of age, inclusive, who is using a wireless telephone or an electronic wireless communications device, as defined, while driving, when the telephone or device is used exclusively as required by, and in the course and scope of, the person's work activities. By expanding the scope of an existing crime, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program. The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement. This bill would provide that no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason.