Current law prohibits reading or typing messages on a personal communications device while driving.
However, holding such a device is legal, except while driving in a work zone.
House Bill 874, currently being considered in the Virginia General Assembly, would prohibit holding a handheld personal communications device while driving a motor vehicle.
HB874 and SB160 would enact such a ban and penalize drivers $125 for a first offense and $250 for any subsequent one.
Drivers would still be able to operate their phones if they are lawfully parked or stopped or are reporting an emergency.
