California Text Messaging Ban | Senate Bill 28
23123.5. (a) A person shall not drive a motor vehicle while using an
electronic wireless communications device to write, send, or read a
text-based communication.
(b) As used in this section “write, send, or read a text-based
communication” means using an electronic wireless communications device
to manually communicate with any person using a text-based
communication, including, but not limited to, communications referred to
as a text message, instant message, or electronic mail.
(c) For purposes of this section, a person shall not be deemed to be
writing, reading, or sending a text-based communication if the person reads,
selects, or enters a telephone number or name in an electronic wireless
communications device for the purpose of making or receiving a telephone
call.
(d) A violation of this section is an infraction punishable by a base fine
of twenty dollars ($20) for a first offense and fifty dollars ($50) for each
subsequent offense.
(e) This section does not apply to an emergency services professional
using an electronic wireless communications device while operating an
authorized emergency vehicle, as defined in Section 165, in the course and
scope of his or her duties.