In its first session of 2016, the Massachusetts Senate is considering legislation to prohibit the use of handheld mobile electronic devices while driving, which also would prevent drivers from entering information by hand into a GPS device while driving. Drivers could still use hands-free devices to make calls, and there are exceptions for emergency situations included in the bill.

For the first violation, drivers would be fined $100, $250 the second time and $500 for all violations after that. Moreover, three-time offenders would be hit with an auto insurance surcharge. Fourteen states, including Connecticut, New Hampshire, Vermont and New York, have hands-free cellphone laws.