BILL ANALYSIS                                                                                                                                                                                                    �



                                                                  AB 1708
                                                                  Page  1

          CONCURRENCE IN SENATE AMENDMENTS
          AB 1708 (Gatto)
          As Amended  July 5, 2012
          Majority vote
           
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          |ASSEMBLY:  |73-0 |(May 10, 2012)  |SENATE: |36-0 |(August 9,     |
          |           |     |                |        |     |2012)          |
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           Original Committee Reference:    INS.  

           SUMMARY  :  Allows drivers to use mobile electronic devices to 
          provide proof of insurance. 

           The Senate amendments  delete provisions allowing the use of a 
          mobile electronic device to provide proof of insurance in a 
          court proceeding.  This bill:  

          1)Permits automobile insurers to provide proof of insurance in 
            an electronic format that may be displayed on a mobile 
            electronic device.

          2)Prohibits a peace officer from viewing any other content on a 
            mobile electronic device when the device is presented to 
            establish proof of insurance or to provide the vehicle 
            registration.

          3)Provides that the owner of the mobile electronic device is 
            liable for any damage to the device when it is presented as 
            proof of insurance.

          4)Permits the use of proof of insurance in an electronic format 
            on a mobile electronic device in response to a demand for 
            proof of insurance from a peace officer related to an alleged 
            violation of the Vehicle Code or accident investigation.

          5)Defines "mobile electronic device" as a portable computing or 
            communications device with a display screen and touch input or 
            miniature keyboard.

           AS PASSED BY THE ASSEMBLY  , this bill was substantially similar 
          to the version passed by the Senate.

           FISCAL EFFECT  :   None








                                                                  AB 1708
                                                                  Page  2


           COMMENTS  :  According to the author, this bill will bring clarity 
          to the law by expressly permitting the use of cell phones and 
          other mobile devices to be used to display proof of insurance.  
          This measure would provide greater convenience to motorists by 
          adapting the law to the increasingly common use of cell phones 
          in business transactions and everyday life.  Governors in both 
          Arizona and Idaho have signed similar legislation this year and 
          Alabama is reportedly developing regulations to permit the use 
          of cell phones to provide display proof of insurance as well.  


           Analysis Prepared by  :    Paul Riches / INS. / (916) 319-2086 


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