South Dakota's ban on using mobile electronic devices while driving now clarifies what counts as an emergency exception—specifically allowing drivers to use their phones to text 911, call emergency services, report fires or accidents, report unsafe drivers, or report crimes. The law also clarifies that using GPS or navigation features is permitted as long as the driver isn't manually entering information while driving. These changes refine the existing ban to make clear which specific emergency and navigation uses are legal.
The amendment removed an exemption allowing handheld mobile electronic device use while operating agricultural equipment not designed to exceed twenty-five miles per hour.
House of Representatives Do Pass Amended Failed, YEAS 21, NAYS 46. H.J. 358
Transportation Do Pass Amended Passed, YEAS 8, NAYS 2.
Transportation Motion to amend
Transportation Scheduled for hearing
Transportation Deferred to another day H.J. 11
Transportation Scheduled for hearing
Transportation Scheduled for hearing
Transportation Scheduled for hearing
First read in House and referred to House Transportation H.J. 15
Prime sponsor · Rep.
R
Cosponsors
Do Pass Amended
Transportation — Do Pass Amended