80(R) HB 3689 - Introduced version - Bill Text
This is annoying enough for amateur operators, but hey, truckers? This outlaws ALL radio operation in vehicles, except emergency vehicles. Are you guys paying attention?
"(b) Except as provided by Subsection (c), an operator may not use a wireless communication device while operating a motor vehicle unless:
(1) the vehicle is stopped; or
(2) the wireless communication device is used with a hands-free device."
Not too many "hands-free" CB radios out there. Look for the troopers to be all over this when it goes into effect.
UPDATE: the Senate version has defined "wireless communication device" to be "a device that uses a commercial mobile service, as defined by 47 U.S.C. Section 332."
In other words, a cellphone. The house version is still in comittee, but did not have that definition when it went in.
UPDATE: Both bills died without action. The senator from San Antonio was absolutely determined that NO ONE was going to talk on a radio while operating a vehicle. Both hands on the wheel at all times, was his motto. He eventually was won over by the ARRL section VP to cut hams some slack, so when he reintroduces this bill in the next legislature, I hope he remembers to do it again.
Posted in Radio Daze by WA5ICA at May 4, 2007 09:12 AM