Fort Bend Independent School District NEWS RELEASE FROM COMMUNITY RELATIONS Nancy Porter, Director of Communications nancy.porter@fortbendisd.com    281.634.1100

**  FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  **

New law prohibits the use of cellular phones in school crossing zones  

FORT BEND ISD - Warning signs are posted in many Fort Bend ISD school zones notifying drivers of a new law prohibiting the use of cellular phones in school crossing zones. These changes impact all school zones in Fort Bend ISD. Parents and students need to be aware of this new law and make sure they are in compliance.

House Bill 55 — a new Texas law that takes effect on Sept. 1 ― amends the state’s Transportation Code, Section 545.425 to prohibit the use of a wireless communication device (WCD) while operating a vehicle within a school crossing zone unless the vehicle is stopped or the WCD is used with a hands-free device.

An exception allows the use of WCDs to make emergency calls to specific organizations listed in the law, including police, fire and emergency medical services.

The new law also prohibits bus operators from using a wireless communication device while operating a passenger bus with a minor passenger unless the bus is stopped. Violators are subject to a fine up to $200.

printer friendly