SB 18-049

Senate Bill 18-049 in Colorado makes it illegal for drivers of all ages to use mobile electronic devices while driving, unless they are using a hands-free device. The bill increases the fine for young drivers (under 18) from $50 to $300 per violation and applies this higher penalty to adult drivers as well. This means that both adults and minors will face stricter penalties if caught using their phones or other devices while driving, unless they are hands-free. Since the bill has been signed into law, it is now enforceable by law enforcement across Colorado.

Official Summary

Current law prohibits the use of wireless telephones while driving for individuals who are younger than 18 years of age. The bill: Extends the prohibition to drivers of all ages; Increases the penalty for minor drivers from $50 per violation to $300 per violation, to match the penalty that currently applies to adult drivers; Extends the existing prohibition of the use of wireless telephones to include all mobile electronic devices; Creates an exception to the prohibition of the use of mobile electronic devices for adult drivers who use a mobile electronic device through the use of a hands-free device; and Repeals a sentence enhancement for a violation that causes a bodily injury or death.(Note: This summary applies to this bill as introduced.) Read More