Bill introduced to restrict mobile devices while driving in Colorado

DENVER (KRDO) -- Colorado could be on its way to banning most drivers from using mobile devices -- a new bill introduced Wednesday would fine drivers caught using their smartphones or other devices on the roads.

SB20-065 was one of dozens of bills filed on the first day of the 2020 legislative session in Colorado Wednesday. It's sponsored by Melton Roberts in the House.

According to the bill text, drivers wouldn't be able to use their mobile devices for most purposes unless it's through a hands-free accessory. That includes things like Bluetooth headsets or car stereos, but it's not clear if that extends to smartwatches or other wearables. Drivers under 18 can't use hands-free devices, either.

The bill says that traffic fatalities have significantly increased in recent years, and part of that can be attributed to the increase in phone usage while driving. A CDOT survey found that 53% of drivers admitted to holding their phone while driving in the week prior to the survey.

According to the bill text, drivers wouldn't be able to use mobile devices for "text messaging, game play, taking photos or videos, or other forms of manual data entry or transmission." It doesn't mention navigation or music apps, specifically.

If passed as written, police officers have to witness a person using the mobile device while driving before a citation can be written. The bill doesn't call for the seizure of the mobile device if caught.

The first penalty would be $50, and then it would go up to $100 and $200 for violations after that. The penalty would be $300 if drivers are caught sending text messages while driving.

No vote has been scheduled yet, and the bill is under consideration in the Senate Transportation and Energy Committee.