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AFMC requires hands-free devices for drivers using cell phones

  • Published
Beginning in April, drivers on Air Force Materiel Command bases will be cited by security forces personnel for talking on cell phones without hands-free devices. Repeated violations could result in suspended or revoked driving privileges.

Cell phone use while driving is categorized as a moving violation in Air Force Instruction 31-218(I). Implementation of the policy to prohibit use of cell phones while driving on AFMC bases will begin following an awareness campaign for AFMC’s work force.

AFMC officials and the American Federation of Government Employees Council 214 entered into a Memorandum of Agreement March 8. The agreement covers the majority of union-represented employees within the command. However, a few AFMC installations are still working to meet bargaining obligations with local unions unaffiliated with AFGE Council 214.

Security forces officials at Headquarters AFMC encourage motorists to pull over safely and park their vehicles prior to talking on a cell phone.

Motorists should note that, although hands-free listening devices are permitted for cell phones, the instruction prohibits the use of other portable headphones, earphones or other listening devices while operating a motor vehicle. Use of those devices impairs driving and masks or prevents recognition of emergency signals, alarms, announcements, the approach of vehicles, and human speech.

The Department of Defense recently published changes to the Code of Federal Regulations, or CFR, that prohibit using cell phones while driving on DoD installations unless they are hands-free devices. The changes are posted in the new DoD Joint Traffic Guidance.