TITLE: Relating to the creation of an offense for certain uses of a wireless communication device while operating a motor vehicle.

SUMMARY: Relating to the creation of an offense for certain uses of a wireless communication device while operating a motor vehicle.

FULL TEXT:
AN ACT relating to the creation of an offense for certain uses of a wireless communication device while operating a motor vehicle. BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS: SECTION 1. Section 545.425(a), Transportation Code, is amended by adding Subdivision (1-a) to read as follows: (1-a) "Text-based communication" means a communication sent from a wireless communication device for the purpose of manually communicating with another person in a written medium. The term includes: (A) a text message; (B) an instant message; and (C) electronic mail. SECTION 2. Section 545.425, Transportation Code, is amended by adding Subsection (c-1) to read as follows: (c-1) An operator may not use a wireless communication device to read, write, or send a text-based communication while operating a motor vehicle unless the vehicle is stopped. SECTION 3. This Act takes effect September 1, 2011.