MISSISSIPPI LEGISLATURE
2003 Regular Session
To: Transportation
By: Representative Eads
AN ACT TO PROHIBIT THE USE OF CELLULAR TELEPHONES WHILE OPERATING A MOTOR VEHICLE; TO PROVIDE A PENALTY FOR VIOLATIONS; AND FOR RELATED PURPOSES.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI:
SECTION 1. (1) It is unlawful for any person to use a cellular telephone while operating a motor vehicle. Any person who violates the provisions of this section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, shall be fined not more than Five Hundred Dollars ($500.00).
(2) Subsection (1) of this section does not prohibit a person from using a cellular phone while operating a motor vehicle
when the phone is being used with hands-free accessories. The phrase "hands-free accessories" means a device or devices that allow a vehicle operator to speak on a cellular phone without holding the phone or some part of the phone with his hands.
SECTION 2. This act shall take effect and be in force from and after July 1, 2003.