HB239 Alabama 2019 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

April WeaverSenator

Republican

Session

Regular Session 2019

Title

Cell phones and other wireless telecommunication devices, use while holding or touching devise prohibited, penalties, exceptions, Sec. 32-5A-350 am'd.

Summary

HB 239 would ban drivers from holding or using wireless devices to write, send, or read text while operating a vehicle in Alabama, with penalties and limited exceptions.

What This Bill Does

The bill makes it illegal to operate a motor vehicle while holding a wireless device or stand-alone electronic device to write, send, or read a text-based communication, and it sets fines for violations. It defines what counts as a wireless device and a stand-alone electronic device, and it provides several exceptions, including voice-based communications, pre-programmed navigation, emergency or first-responder use, and situations where the vehicle is parked. Commercial drivers face extra restrictions, such as using only a single button to start or end a call and not reaching for a device if not properly seated and belted, and the act would take effect on October 1, 2020. The bill also states that it creates a new crime or amends an existing crime for local-funding purposes, and thus is treated with specific constitutional considerations regarding local expenditures.

Who It Affects

• General drivers in Alabama would be prohibited from holding or using wireless devices to write, send, or read text while driving, with specified penalties and limited exceptions.
• Emergency responders, law enforcement, and other public safety personnel have exemptions to use devices during official duties, and may be treated differently when performing those duties.

Key Provisions

• Defines stand-alone electronic device and wireless telecommunications device.
• Prohibits driving while using a device to write, send, or read a text-based communication.
• Prohibits physically holding or supporting devices while driving; allows certain voice-based use and specifies navigation/GPS exceptions.
• Exceptions include voice-based communications converted to text, reading or entering a number to place a call, and pre-programmed navigation directions with restrictions on programming while driving.
• Commercial motor vehicle drivers face additional rules: only a single button may be used to initiate/terminate a voice call and reaching for a device is prohibited if not properly seated and belted.
• Fines escalate by violation: first offense ($25 or $50), second offense ($50 or $100), third or subsequent offense ($75 or $150).
• Effective date: October 1, 2020.
• The bill includes a note about Amendment 621/Section 111.05 regarding local expenditures, indicating the bill is treated as creating a new crime for that purpose.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 24, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Cellular Telephones