State law to restrict cell phone use in school zones

Cell phones within Pearland ISD school zones

New legislation will impact drivers who use cell phones within Pearland ISD school zones.

To promote safety in school zones statewide, the Texas Legislature has enacted a bill that prohibits drivers from using wireless, hand-held communication devices in school crossing zones.

House Bill 55, effective Sept. 1, amends the Texas Transportation Code, section 545.425, to prohibit drivers from using wireless communication devices within a school crossing zone unless the vehicle is stopped or the device is hands-free. Violators of the law may be subject to a fine of up to $200.

The law does not apply to these individuals:

• Drivers of authorized emergency vehicles who are using wireless communication devices while acting in an official capacity
• Drivers using wireless communication devices to contact police, fire or emergency medical personnel during emergency situations
• Drivers who are licensed by the Federal Communications Commission to operate a radio frequency device

Pearland ISD Superintendent Dr. Bonny Cain supports the law.

“The safety and security of our students is our top priority, we want to take every opportunity to make our school zones safe for students walking to and from school,” Cain said.

Though the law goes into effect after students return to school, additional police officers will be on hand during the first week of school enforcing motor vehicle laws and ensuring that traffic is flowing smoothly in school zones, said Lt. Onesimo Lopez, Pearland Police Department Community Services Division supervisor.

For more information about HB 55, visit www.statutes.legis.state.tx.us.