1.1 	A bill for an act
1.2 	relating to traffic regulations; limiting use of wireless communications devices 
1.3 	while operating a motor vehicle;amending Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 
1.4 	169.01, by adding a subdivision; proposing coding for new law in Minnesota 
1.5 	Statutes, chapter 169.
1.6 	BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF MINNESOTA:

1.7 	Section 1. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 169.01, is amended by adding a 
1.8 	subdivision to read:
1.9 		Subd. 93.Wireless communications device. "Wireless communications device" 
1.10 	means (1) a cellular phone, or (2) a portable electronic device that is capable of receiving 
1.11 	and transmitting data, including but not limited to text messages and e-mail, without an 
1.12 	access line for service. A wireless communications device does not include a device that 
1.13 	is permanently affixed to the vehicle, including a global positioning system or navigation 
1.14 	system.

1.15 	Sec. 2. [169.475] USE OF WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS DEVICE.
1.16 		Subdivision 1.Definition. For purposes of this section, "electronic message" 
1.17 	means a self-contained piece of digital communication that is designed or intended to 
1.18 	be transmitted between physical devices. An electronic message includes, but is not 
1.19 	limited to, e-mail, a text message, an instant message, a command or request to access 
1.20 	a World Wide Web page, or other data that uses a commonly recognized electronic 
1.21 	communications protocol. An electronic message does not include voice or other data 
1.22 	transmitted as a result of making a phone call, or data transmitted automatically by a 
1.23 	wireless communications device without direct initiation by a person.
2.1 		Subd. 2.Prohibition on use. No person may operate a motor vehicle while using a 
2.2 	wireless communications device to compose, read, or send an electronic message, when 
2.3 	the vehicle is in motion or a part of traffic.
2.4 		Subd. 3.Exceptions. This section does not apply if a wireless communications 
2.5 	device is used:
2.6 	(1) solely in a voice-activated or other hands-free mode;
2.7 	(2) for making a cellular phone call;
2.8 	(3) for obtaining emergency assistance to (i) report a traffic accident, medical 
2.9 	emergency, or serious traffic hazard, or (ii) prevent a crime about to be committed; 
2.10 	(4) in the reasonable belief that a person's life or safety is in immediate danger; or
2.11 	(5) in an authorized emergency vehicle while in the performance of official duties.