Scribner’s Distracted Driving Proposal Becomes Law

A state Rep. David Scribner-inspired bill bolstering Connecticut’s distracted driving rules was signed into law Thursday by Gov. M. Jodi Rell at the police department here. The bill makes text messaging while driving illegal, and it also increases the penalty for using a cellular phone while driving, said Scribner, ranking member of the legislature’s Transportation Committee. “Technological advancements in communications have certainly made life easier for us all, but there are just some places where cellular phones just don’t belong,” said Scribner, who represents Brookfield and Bethel. “Using phones and mobile devices while sitting behind a steering wheel just doesn’t mix.”

In 2008, 6,000 people nationwide died as a result of distracted driving.

Scribner’s proposal, crafted through ideas culled from other committee members and Rell, also the removes “freebie” status for first-time offenders would end; a first-timer would have to pay a $100 fine.

What’s more, the proposal calls for a $150 fine for a second offense, and a $200 fine for a three-time offender.

Unique to Scribner’s plan, however, is a requirement that has the state comptroller remit 25 percent of the fine to municipalities to help fund their efforts to enforce the state’s cell phone law.

The state’s Office of Fiscal Analysis estimates the new law should create $345,000 in revenue to cities and towns as well as $220,000 for the state’s coffers. The law is effective October 1.

In early May, the state’s House of Representatives unanimously approved S.B. 427, an Act Concerning the Use of Hand-Held Mobile Telephones and Mobile Electronic Devices by Motor Vehicle Operators.

The plan drew support of the Connecticut Police Chiefs Association. Law enforcement officials have described a growing number of accidents attributable to drivers focused on mobile devices.

“These officers have seen first-hand what distracted driving can do,” Rell said. “They see it in terms of avoidable accidents unnecessary injuries and sometimes, worst of all, they see it in terms of a fatality.”

Students at Brookfield High School have asked Scribner to speak about distracted driving and his legislative efforts during the Relay for Life opening ceremonies June 4 (7 p.m.) at the school.