§ 6-19-120 - Operation of a school bus while using a cellular telephone. - Arkansas Statutes

6-19-120. Operation of a school bus while using a cellular telephone.

(a) As used in this section:

(1) "Cellular telephone" means a wireless two-way communication device that requires the operator to dial numbers manually and that:

(A) Includes radio-telephone communications used in cellular telephone service, personal communication service, or the functional equivalent of a radio-telephone communications line used in cellular telephone service or a personal communication service; and

(B) Does not include a citizens band radio or a citizens band radio hybrid; and

(2) "School bus" means every motor vehicle owned by a public school district or operated under contract for a public school district and used for the transportation of children to or from school or school-sponsored activities.

(b) Except as provided in subsection (c) of this section, a person shall not operate a school bus while using a cellular telephone.

(c) This section does not apply to the use of a cellular telephone:

(1) For the purpose of communicating with any of the following regarding an emergency situation:

(A) An emergency system response operator or 911 public safety communications dispatcher;

(B) A hospital or emergency room;

(C) A physician's office or health clinic;

(D) An ambulance or fire department rescue service;

(E) A fire department, fire protection district, or volunteer fire department; or

(F) A police department;

(2) To call for assistance if there is a mechanical breakdown or other mechanical problem impairing the operation of the bus; or

(3) When the school bus is parked.

(d) A person who violates this section is guilty of a violation and may be fined not less than one hundred dollars ($100) nor more than two hundred fifty dollars ($250).