California Text Messaging Ban | Driving Laws and Senate Bill 28

California 2010 Legislative Update

California Senate Bill 1475 - New legislation has been introduced in California that would increase the fines for Text Messaging and Cell phone use while driving.

If the bill is passed into law it would also add One Point to your driving record and the new law would also extend to Bicyclists.

For more information read our Legislative Blog or Read the bill for yourself at California Senate Bill 1475.

SB 28 - California's Text Messaging Ban

On September 24th, 2008 the Governor of California , Arnold Schwarzenegger signed Senate Bill 28 (SB 28) in to law.

The new bill prohibits a person from driving a motor vehicle while using an electronic wireless communications device to write, send, or read a text-based communication.

The new bill will impose a fine of $20 for the first offense and $50 for subsequent offenses.

No violation points will be given as a result of the offense and there are exceptions for emergency personnel.

On this page you will also find the State of California press release regarding Senate Bill 28 and below that, you can read the text of the bill.

At the bottom of this page you will find a Source Link to the Bill if you wish to read it on the State of California Website.

California Press Release Regarding Senate Bill 28

Gov. Schwarzenegger Signs Legislation Banning the Use of Electronic Text Messaging Devices While Driving Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today reinforced his commitment to keeping California 's roads safe by signing legislation that prohibits drivers from using text messaging devices while operating a motor vehicle.

"Building on legislation already helping save lives in California , I am happy to sign this bill because it further encourages safe and responsible driving," said Governor Schwarzenegger. "Banning electronic text messaging while driving will keep drivers' hands on the wheel and their eyes on the road, making our roadways a safer place for all Californians."

SB 28 by Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) specifically bans the use of an electronic wireless communications device to write, send, or read a text-based communication while driving a motor vehicle. The bill would impose a base fine of $20 for a first offense and $50 for each subsequent offense.

This bill compliments an existing law which Gov. Schwarzenegger signed in 2006. SB 1613, also by Senator Simitian, requires motorists to use hands-free devices while talking on a mobile phone when driving a motor vehicle.