US military bans hand-held cell phones and HTs while driving

If you are in the United Sates military or make visits to any US military bases, you must use a hands free cellphone or permanently mounted two-way radio while driving on post. This, according to a revision to the Code of Federal Regulations posted to the VHF Reflector by Howard Gordon, W3CQH.

The new rule is effective March 1st . It mandates that all federal installations prohibit the use of cellular phones, PDAs, and similar communication devices by persons operating motor vehicles, unless used with a hands-free device.

Also affected are two-way radios. The new rules say that radio communication devices, hand sets or microphones may only be used by operators if the radio device is mounted to the vehicle. In other words, it has to be a permanent rigid installation and not quick install using double-sided tape or stick-on Velcro fasteners.

And banned is the use of walkie-talkies or phones in the direct connect mode to ones head. Also on the no-no list is the use of video technology in any playback mode, by the driver. The only exception is the use of vehicular-mounted navigation systems and the use of tactical radios in tactical vehicles is not subject to this regulation.

These new restrictions apply to all personnel on post and to military personnel both on and off post regardless of their duty status.

Operators found in violation during the grace period of March 1, 2007 through April 1, 2007 will receive a warning ticket. Beginning April 2nd , violators will be ticketed. Violation of this policy may result in suspension or revocation of post driving privileges, the assessment of points, or a fine.

Source: ARNewsline, W3CQH, VHF Reflector

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