DEPARTMENT: Police
DEPARTMENT HEAD: William P. McManus
COUNCIL DISTRICTS IMPACTED: Citywide
SUBJECT:
An update on the Ordinance amending the City Code related to the use of hand-held mobile communication devices while driving
SUMMARY:
The following memo is an update on outcomes related to changes made to Chapter 19 of the Municipal Code of the City of San Antonio.
BACKGROUND:
On August 19, 2014, Councilman Gallagher issued a council consideration request (CCR). Councilman Gallagher's CCR requested City Staff examine the current ordinance related to the ban on the use of hand-held mobile communication devices and add a provision stating that they may only be used in a "hands-free" capacity unless in an emergency situation.
In November 2014, the City Council adopted changes to Chapter 19 of the City Code restricting the use of hand-held mobile communication devices while driving. The changes went into effect January 1, 2015, including a 30-day grace period during which only warnings were issued. This allowed the City of San Antonio to inform the public about the importance and requirements of the new Ordinance.
Under the ordinance, it is prohibited to use a hand-held mobile communication device while operating a motor vehicle on any City street (even when stopped either at a traffic signal or due to road conditions, e.g. heavy traffic) to use a handheld mobile communication device for any purpose.
The ordinance does not apply to a person who is:
> On private property or legally parked
> Using a hands-free device
> Using a hand-held mobile communication device affixed to the vehicle and used as a global positioning or navigation system
> Operating an authorized emergency vehicle while acting in an official capacity
> Peace officers making emergency calls
> Reporting illegal activity to a law enforcement agency
> Communicating with an emergency response operator, a fire department, a law enforcement agency, a ...
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