modify requirements on the use of mobile electronic devices while driving.
HB 1117 modifies South Dakota's existing laws regarding the use of mobile electronic devices while operating a vehicle. The bill directly affects drivers by updating the rules that govern when and how they may use phones or other electronic devices behind the wheel. Key provisions likely adjust the specific restrictions or exceptions allowed for device usage during driving. This legislative change aims to clarify or alter current regulations to better address driver behavior and safety standards. The bill focuses on concrete policy adjustments to the state's driving laws without speculating on broader impacts.
Bill status
in committee
2 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Jan 2025
Committee Review
Feb 2025
House Failed
Feb 2025
Governor
Introduced Jan 28, 2025
Last action Feb 10, 2025
Maddy AI version diff · 1 comparison
What changed between versions
Introduced
→
House Transportation Engrossed
·
4 edits
·
Feb 6, 2025
MODERATE
This bill modifies South Dakota's hands-free driving law by adding specific exemptions for emergency communications, GPS navigation, and agricultural equipment use. The changes clarify when drivers may legally use mobile electronic devices while operating vehicles, expanding permissible exceptions beyond the original hands-free requirement.
Scope change
The bill expands the scope of permissible mobile device use by adding new exemptions for emergency communications, GPS navigation, and agricultural equipment operation.
REQUIREMENT
Added exemption for using mobile devices to contact emergency services, report accidents or hazards, and report reckless driving or impaired drivers.
Added exemption for using GPS navigation features, though manual data entry remains prohibited.
Added exemption for using mobile devices while operating agricultural equipment under 25 mph, excluding trucks.
Added exemption for activating or deactivating device features, and for entering phone numbers to make or receive calls.
Floor votes · House Feb 10, 2025
How they voted
29–38
Failed · 1 other
Total votes 68
Feb 10, 2025
D
Democratic5
100% Yea
R
Republican63
60% Nay
Vote distribution
All Yea
All Nay
Mixed
No data
Full legislative history
Actions timeline
Total actions
6
Key actions
2
Committee
2
Amendments
1
Feb 10, 2025
Lower · Passed
House of Representatives Do Pass Amended , Passed, YEAS 29, NAYS 39 H.J. 241
lower
Feb 10, 2025
Vote failed
House Vote: fail (29-38-1)
house
Feb 6, 2025
Lower · Passed
Transportation Do Pass Amended , Passed, YEAS 9, NAYS 4 H.J. 11
lower
Feb 6, 2025
Introduced
Transportation Motion to amend , Passed, H.J. 11 Amendment 1117A
lower
Jan 28, 2025
Introduced
First read in House and referred to H.J. 134
lower
3 primary · 0 co-sponsors
Sponsors
Role
Legislator
Party
State
District
P
Carl Perry
RRepublican
P
Kevin Jensen
RRepublican
P
William Shorma
RRepublican
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