HOLD THE PHONE, GET A TICKET

Officials React To New Distracted Driving Laws

BY ERIC CZARNIK eczarnik@candgnews.com

METRO DETROIT — If you want to avoid a traffic ticket, keep your cellphone out of your grasp.

Freshly passed state legislation that will penalize drivers for holding or using their cellphones or other electronic mobile devices while driving will be effective June 30.

The adopted bill package, which started in Lansing as House Bills 4250-4252, generally and more broadly prohibits drivers from using a mobile device — such as browsing social media, making calls or recording video — while operating a vehicle. That includes while stopped at a traffic light or stop sign, though not when the vehicle is parked legally.

The legislation also prohibits drivers from holding a mobile device with the hands, arms or shoulders.

The laws do permit using hands-free or voice-operated technology for cellphone calls while behind the wheel. The bill package includes exemptions for certain emergency situations.

In addition, the legislation directs the Michigan State Police to issue a report to Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and Lansing lawmakers about the issue 42 months after implementation.

Whitmer signed the anti-distracted driving bills into law June 7, making them Public Acts 39-41 of 2023. She said in a statement that she was proud to do so.

“Too many Michiganders have lost loved

See DISTRACTED on page 9A