HB404 Alabama 2019 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

K.L. Brown

Republican

Session

Regular Session 2019

Title

Motor vehicles, distracted driving, use of cell phone while operating a motor vehicle prohibited, exceptions, CiCi's Law, Secs. 32-5A-350, 32-5A-351 am'd.

Summary

HB 404 expands Alabama's distracted-driving law (CiCi's Law) to ban texting and other device use while driving, adds exemptions, and increases penalties.

What This Bill Does

It would prohibit using a wireless device to write, send, or read text-based communications and to watch or record video while operating a motor vehicle, and would bar holding or supporting a device with the body while driving. It adds exemptions such as hands-free voice communications, continuous recording devices (dash/backup cameras), utility workers responding to emergencies, first responders performing official duties, and ignition interlock devices. It creates higher penalties for violations and links those penalties to driving-record points (two points for first/second convictions; three points for third or more). It also adds reporting requirements on accidents and traffic stops, notes whether a driver was operating as a rideshare/TNC driver, and repeals a prior provision; it becomes effective on the date specified after governor approval.

Who It Affects

• General drivers in Alabama would face new prohibitions on texting or holding devices while driving.
• Utility workers, law enforcement, EMS, and other public-safety personnel would have exemptions when performing official duties.
• Commercial drivers for compensation with mounted devices could use limited hands-on features (one swipe/tap) without accessing non-navigational functions.
• TNC drivers and others would be subject to added accident-reporting requirements and data collection; fines would be directed to the State General Fund.

Key Provisions

• Creates CiCi's Law by adding 32-5A-353 to 32-5A-358 with defined terms and prohibitions.
• Prohibits text-based communications and watching/recording media on wireless devices while driving; bans holding or supporting a device with the body.
• Adds exemptions: hands-free voice communications (with an exception), continuous recording devices, utility responders, first responders, ignition interlock device use.
• Imposes fines: $50 first, $100 second, $150 third+; assigns 2 points for first/second convictions and 3 points for third+ on driving records.
• Fines go to the State General Fund; agencies must collect stop data and report monthly on stops (including minority data).
• Amends 32-10-8 for uniform accident reports to include operator's TNC status and provides reporting to DPS and Legislature.
• Repeals the previous section 32-5A-350; the act includes a 2/3-vote exemption under Amendment 621; becomes effective on the first day of the third month after governor approval.

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

Subjects

Motor Vehicles