S 438 New Jersey Senate · 2024-2025 Regular Session

Extends to 90 days statute of limitations for unlawful use of cell phone while driving; increases penalties for texting while driving.

This bill (S 438) extends the statute of limitations for texting while driving violations from 30 to 90 days, meaning prosecutors have more time to file charges. It specifically increases penalties for texting while driving: a first offense now carries a $600 fine (up from $200-$400 for general cell phone use), with higher fines for repeat offenses. These changes directly affect drivers who use handheld devices to text while operating a vehicle. The law maintains existing restrictions on handheld phone use but adds stricter fines and penalty points specifically for texting violations.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Jan 2024
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Jan 9, 2024 Last action Jan 9, 2024
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Jan 9, 2024
Introduced
Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Law and Public Safety Committee
upper
1 primary · 0 co-sponsors

Sponsors

Role
Legislator
Party
State
District
P
Photo of Jim Holzapfel
Jim Holzapfel
RRepublican
NJ
10