SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Javier Cervantes is sponsoring legislation that would prohibit all drivers from using an electronic communications device while operating a motor vehicle in Illinois, including any video conferencing or social media applications.

“Ensuring our roadways are safe is a basic necessity we should provide Illinois drivers,” said Cervantes (D-Chicago). “No one should be taking conference and video calls while driving. This is commonsense legislation that will make Illinois roadways safer for all.”

House Bill 2431 would make it illegal to use any electronic communications devices while operating a motor vehicle, including the use of cell phones and tablets for streaming videos and participating in video conferences on platforms such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams and WebEx. Additionally, the bill prohibits any social media applications like Facebook, Snapchat, Instagram and Twitter from being used while operating a motor vehicle on a public roadway.

Drivers that are currently allowed a permit to use electronic communication devices in hands-free or voice-operated mode by pressing a single button to activate would be exempt from this legislation.

“This is a serious problem on our roadways with the continuing shift to remote work, and we want to ensure that everyone is using safe driving practices and giving other drivers that respect,” Cervantes said. “I urge my colleagues to support this legislation and provide Illinois drivers with the knowledge and trust that all drivers are respecting this shared space and the real dangers video calling can cause while on the road.”

House Bill 2431 passed the House Transportation – Vehicle and Safety Committee on Wednesday and heads to the House floor for further consideration.

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