Sec. 1. 29-A MRSA §2115 is enacted to read:

§2115.__Cellular telephone use by juvenile prohibited

while operating motor vehicle

1.__Prohibition.__A person who has not attained 18 years of age who has been issued an instruction permit under section 1304 may not operate a motor vehicle while using a handheld cellular telephone.

2.__Penalty.__A person who violates this section commits a traffic infraction for which a fine of not less than $50 for the first violation and not less than $250 for a 2nd or subsequent violation committed within one year of the first violation may be adjudged.

SUMMARY

This bill prohibits a juvenile less than 18 years of age who is driving under an instruction permit from using a handheld cellular telephone while operating a motor vehicle. The bill makes the offense a traffic infraction.