LANSING, Mich. (WXYZ) — A new bill proposed in the Michigan House of Representatives looks to expand Michigan's texting-while-driving law.
HB 4198, introduced by Republican Rep. Triston Cole, would add several other restrictions to the bill. Cole represents northern lower Michigan including Gaylord, Charlevoix and more.
According to Cole, the bill would also make it illegal to read an email and send a message on cellphone social media apps.
“It’s time we put our cellphones away while driving – and that includes checking Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and all the rest of it,” Cole said in a release. “Social media can wait until the driving is done. Making this important change to Michigan law will keep our roads safer for everyone by eliminating potential distractions for drivers.”
The plan also limits new drivers ages 16 and 17 with either a level 1 or level 2 license from talking or listening to a cellphone call while driving except in cases of an emergency.
The bill was referred to the House Transportation Committee.
