Sen. Diamond releases statement on Judicial Branch decision to lower fine amount for new distracted driving law

AUGUSTA – On Wednesday, the Maine Judicial Branch Violations Bureau released the fine amount for drivers violating Maine’s new “hands-free” distracted driving law, which took effect Thursday. While the original intent of the bill’s sponsor, Sen. Bill Diamond, D-Windham, was for the fine to be $50 plus fees for the first offense, due to an error in the language of the law, the fine for that charge was set by District Court Chief Judge Susan Orman at $230.

On Thursday, Sen. Diamond spoke with Maine Supreme Court Chief Justice Saufley about this discrepancy, and today the Judicial Branch announced that, for the next six months, the fine for the first offense will be adjusted to $50 plus fees, for a total of $85. This window will give the Legislature time to clarify the language of the law.

In regard to the fine alteration, Sen. Diamond released the following statement:

“I appreciate Chief Justice Saufley’s timely and thoughtful consideration of my concerns, and the court’s willingness to temporarily adjust the fine amount to reflect both the intent of the Legislature and what had been communicated to the public leading up to the law taking effect. My colleagues and I will be working quickly to make the necessary changes needed to clarify the law.”