Legislation Expanding Distracted Driving Laws and Punishments Passes House Committee

COLUMBUS – An Ohio House committee today passed legislation, sponsored by State Rep. Cindy Abrams (R-Harrison) and State Rep. Brian Lampton (R-Beavercreek), which expands current language regarding texting and driving.

“We have to do our part in minimizing traffic-related deaths in Ohio,” Abrams said. “We have worked diligently with stakeholders and various members of the House Criminal Justice committee to produce a piece of legislation that does just that.” 

House Bill 283 will do the following in an effort to combat traffic accidents due to cellphone-related traffic accidents in Ohio:

• Implement a “single swipe” policy and prohibit individuals from holding or physically supporting an electronic wireless communications device with any part of the body, with certain exceptions; and
• Make it a primary offense for Ohioans to hold and look at an electronic wireless communication device (EWCD).

According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol, from 2013 through 2019, more than 91,000 distracted driving crashes occurred throughout the state of Ohio. This resulted in more than 47,000 injuries and 305 deaths. 

Currently, 44 states have passed various distracted driving laws. Abrams noted that within two years of passing and enforcing distracted driving legislation, statistics reflect a consistent reduction in traffic deaths throughout these 44 states.

“We have to put a stop to the recklessness that comes with distracted driving,” Lampton added. “I appreciate the support from our colleagues in the Criminal Justice Committee and look forward to continuing to work to save lives.”

House Bill 283 now moves to the House floor for further consideration.