N.C. passes bill banning bus driver cell phone use
RALEIGH, N.C. — Gov. Mike Easley has signed a bill prohibiting bus drivers from talking on a cell phone or using any other cell phone-related te...
RALEIGH, N.C. — Gov. Mike Easley has signed a bill prohibiting bus drivers from talking on a cell phone or using any other cell phone-related technology while transporting students on a school bus or any vehicle transporting public, private, or parochial school students for compensation.
The bill, HB 183, allows an exception for use of cell phones during emergency situations, such as medical concerns, unsafe road conditions, matters of public safety or mechanical problems posing a risk to the operator or passengers. It also does not prohibit drivers from talking on a cell phone while a bus is not in motion.
Violations of the law will result in a $100 fine for the driver, but no driver license points or insurance surcharges may be assessed as a result of violations. Also, the bill does not allow for seizure of the cell phone by law enforcement officials.
The bill is scheduled to take effect on Dec. 1, 2007.
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