A hands-free cell phone requirement for all Oregon drivers has been approved by the Oregon Senate and is now on it’s way to the House for a final vote. House Bill 2377 aims to cut back on traffic accidents, increase bicycle and pedestrian safety, and add to the general safety of the driver and passengers in any motor vehicle. The official text of the bill states that it:
Prohibits person of any age from operating motor vehicles while using mobile communication device except under certain circumstances.
These circumstances include public safety officials, emergency personnel, and persons summoning emergency help. This bill is intended to prohibit all two-way cellular communication, which includes text messaging.
Oregon would be one of the six states supporting this law if the bill passes, increasing awareness in other state and national legislature. Introduced by the House of Representatives, the bill is supported by Senator Jackie Dingfelder, who connects with the idea behind this bill on a personal level. “As a cyclist, this is a really important step toward safe roads for everyone,” Dingfelder said.
If a driver is caught violating this proposed bill, it will fall under a Class D traffic violation, costing them $90. If passed, House Bill 2377 will take effect on January 1, 2010.