On April 22, Governor Doug Ducey signed a bill into law that will help make Arizona roads safer for everyone. This action by the governor concludes AAA’s decade long effort to address distracted driving in Arizona.
Under the new law, Arizona drivers will be prohibited from using a handheld cell phone while driving, except for when stopped or in emergency situations.
“Laws reflect the values of society, and we know the overwhelming majority of drivers believe using a phone to make a call, send a text message or look at social media behind the wheel is unacceptable,” Michelle Donati, spokeswoman for AAA Arizona, said. “On behalf of more than 900,000 members across the state, AAA Arizona would like to thank Gov. Ducey for recognizing the need for this life-saving legislation.”
Beginning in January 2021, law enforcement officers can begin issuing citations for a violation of the law, allowing motorists ample time to adjust their driving behaviors. A first-time offense for breaking the primary law will result in a fine of between $75 and $149. Fines for subsequent violations increase to $250.
AAA Arizona is appreciative of Senate President Karen Fann [R-District 1], Sen. Kate Brophy McGee [R-District 28], House of Representative Speaker Rusty Bowers[R-District 25] and Rep. Noel Campbell [R-District 1], as well as the bipartisan support of legislators who supported this bill.
“It’s time we take a statewide approach to this issue,” Rep. Campbell, who successfully guided the legislation through the Arizona House of Representatives, said. “In doing so, we’re alleviating confusion by ensuring all drivers operate under the same rules.”
“This is a great day for Arizona,” Senator Brophy McGree, who authored the legislation in the Arizona Senate, said. “We’ve lost far too many lives as a result of this public health crisis. This law plays a critical role in making Arizona roads safer for everyone.”
Earlier this year, a poll commissioned by AAA Arizona and the Arizona Property Casualty Insurance Association revealed 83 percent of Arizona voters across all ages, regions and partisan segments overwhelmingly supported this legislation.
