Federal mandates for roads passed

Senators passed a bill March 24 that prohibits drivers of commercial and passenger vehicles from using phones while driving.

LB983, introduced by Fullerton Sen. Annette Dubas, updates Nebraska statutes to comply with federal regulations regarding commercial driver’s licenses, permits and identification cards issued by the state Department of Motor Vehicles.

If convicted of using a hand-held telephone while driving, commercial vehicle drivers, drivers of nine- to 15-passenger vans and school bus drivers would have a three-point penalty assessed against their license. The bill also exempts farmers, their family members and employees from commercial driving regulations when driving covered farm vehicles.

Senators passed the bill, which goes into effect immediately, on a 42-0 vote.