An Act To Increase Safety in Construction Zones
Be it enacted by the People of the State of Maine as follows:
Sec. 1. 29-A MRSA §2117 is enacted to read:
§ 2117. Use of electronic devices while operating motor vehicles on a public way under construction or undergoing maintenance
1. Prohibition. A person may not operate a motor vehicle while using a mobile telephone as defined in section 2116, subsection 1, paragraph B or a handheld electronic device as defined in section 2116, subsection 1, paragraph A in an area in which the Commissioner of Transportation or the Executive Director of the Maine Turnpike Authority has restricted the speed limit for construction or maintenance activity pursuant to section 2075, subsection 2.
2. Penalty. A person who violates this section commits a traffic infraction for which a fine of not less than $50 for the first offense and not less than $250 for a 2nd or subsequent offense may be adjudged.
summary
This bill provides that a person may not operate a motor vehicle while using a mobile telephone or handheld electronic device in an area in which the Commissioner of Transportation or the Executive Director of the Maine Turnpike Authority has restricted the speed limit for construction or maintenance activity. The bill also provides that the penalty for a violation of this provision is at least $50 for the first offense and at least $250 for the 2nd or subsequent offense.