The Indiana General Assembly considered several measures related to cell phone usage, and the following summary briefly describes two of the bills that were approved.
Find all of the new laws on the Governor’s Bill Watch>>
Texting: House Enrolled Act 1129 stipulates a Class C infraction, which carries a $500 fine, for drivers who are found to be using a cell phone or other telecommunications device to type, transmit or read a text or email message while driving. Use of hands-free devices, however, is permitted under the act. The measure would not infringe upon a driver’s ability to talk on the phone while driving.
Final Votes
House: vote of 82-11
Senate: vote of 26-24
Governor: Signed May 10, 2011
Cell phones on Do Not Call list: House Enrolled Act 1273 will allow cell phone numbers to be included on the state’s Do Not Call registry, a popular program administered by the Indiana Attorney General’s office and provided free of charge to Indiana residents. Under the new statute, in addition to a landline, Indiana residents can register any wireless or VOIP telephone number associated with their residential address or a prepaid wireless number that is primarily used in Indiana. Telemarketers who call a cell phone number registered on the Do Not Call list will face the same penalties as those who call a registered land line. Registration is available by calling 1.888.834.9969 or online at www.IndianaConsumer.com.
Final Votes
Senate: vote of 50-0
House: vote of 94-0
Governor: Signed May 13, 2011
