Section G: Personnel
Policy Title: Staff Use of Digital Wireless Communications or Electronic Devices While Operating a Motor Vehicle
Policy Code: GBEFA
Print Version (in PDF)
Definitions
Portable wireless communication device:
- means a cellular telephone, a portable telephone, a text-messaging device, a personal digital assistant, a stand-alone computer, a global positioning system receiver or a substantially similar portable wireless device that is used to initiate or receive communication, information or data.
- does not include a radio, citizens band radio, citizens band radio hybrid, commercial two-way radio communication device or its functional equivalent, subscription-based emergency communication device, prescribed medical device, amateur or ham radio device or in-vehicle security, navigation or remote diagnostics system.
Stand-alone electronic device means a portable device other than a portable wireless communication device that stores audio or video data files to be retrieved on demand by a user.
State Law Prohibits
Arizona law (A.R.S. 28-914, effective January 1, 2021), states that a person may not operate a motor vehicle on a street or highway if the person does either of the following:
- physically holds or supports with any part of the person's body either of the following:
- portable wireless communication device, except that a person may use a portable wireless communication device with an earpiece, headphone device or device worn on a wrist to conduct a voice-based communication.
- a stand-alone electronic device.
- writes, sends or reads any text-based communication, including a text message, instant message, e-mail or Internet data, on a portable wireless communication device or stand-alone electronic device.
Exceptions
An operator may use a portable wireless communication device:
- to report illegal activity or summon emergency help.
- that was permanently or temporarily affixed to the motor vehicle to relay information in the course of the operator's occupational duties between the operator and either: i) a dispatcher, ii) a digital network or software application service.
Law Does not Apply
This does not apply to either of the following:
- the use of voice-based communications, including through the use of a portable wireless communication device or stand-alone electronic device, to direct the writing, sending, reading or other communicating of any text-based communication.
- the use of a portable wireless communication device or stand-alone device when used in a hands-free manner for:
- navigation of the motor vehicle.
- use of a global positioning system.
- obtaining motor vehicle information or information related to driving a motor vehicle.
This also does not prohibit the operation of a motor vehicle while using a device, including a device that is accessible through an interface that is embedded in a motor vehicle, that allows communication without the use of either of the driver's hands, except to activate or deactivate a function of the device.
Training
The Superintendent will develop training to implement this policy prior to the effective date.
Adopted: March 27, 2020
LEGAL REF.:
A.R.S.
15-341 General Powers and Duties
15-514 Reports of Immoral or Unprofessional Conduct
28-914 Use of portable wireless communication device while driving
28-963 Image display device; prohibition; exceptions; definition
28-3164 Original applicants; examination
CROSS REF.:
EEAE - Bus Safety Program
EEB- Business and Personnel Transportation Services
GBEA - Staff Ethics
GBEB - Staff Conduct
GBEBB - Staff Conduct With Students