S 53 New Jersey Senate · 2026-2027 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 extends the statute of limitations for unlawful cell phone use while driving from 30 to 90 days, allowing more time for legal action against violators. It specifically increases penalties for texting while driving: $600 for a first offense (up from $200-$400), $800 for a second, and $1,000 for third or subsequent offenses, with additional license points. The bill directly affects drivers who use handheld devices for texting while operating a vehicle, excluding hands-free use or emergency calls. Key mechanisms include the longer legal window for prosecutions and significantly higher fines for texting violations compared to general cell phone use. The changes apply to New Jersey's existing restrictions under C.39:4-97.3.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Jan 2026
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Jan 13, 2026 Last action Jan 13, 2026
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Jan 13, 2026
Introduced
Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Law and Public Safety Committee
upper
1 primary · 0 co-sponsors

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