| Minnesota Criminal Justice Statute Service | Bureau of Criminal Apprehension

169.475.1

Statute ID: 17385

Statute Function ID: 36187

Use of Wireless Communications Device - Electronic Message Defined

In Effect

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Details are only available for Penalty and Charging Statutes.

Statute Number:

169.475.1

Enactment Date:

Apr 12, 2019

Effective Date:

Aug 1, 2019

Expiration Date:

Repealed?:

Summary Text:

Use of Wireless Communications Device - Electronic Message Defined

Statute ID:

17385

Created:

Jul 8, 2019 by mnjis.legal.analyst@state.mn.us

Updated:

Jul 8, 2019 by mnjis.legal.analyst@state.mn.us

Last Update Action:

Added

Legal Analyst Comment:

Amended 2019 c 11 sect 2; Definitions

Summary Text:

Use of Wireless Communications Device - Electronic Message Defined

Link to MN Statute Text:

https://www.revisor.leg.state.mn.us/stats/169/475.html

Legislative Session:

2019 - Regular

Session Law Text?:

Statute text last updated on:

Jul 8, 2019

(a) For purposes of this section, the following terms have the meanings given.

(b) "Electronic message" means a self-contained piece of digital communication that is designed or intended to be transmitted between physical devices. An electronic message includes, but is not limited to,: e-mail,; a text message,; an instant message,; a command or request to access a web page; a voice-mail message; a transmitted image; transmitted video content, including through video calling; transmitted gaming data; and other data transmitted using a commonly recognized electronic communications protocol. An electronic message does not include: voice or audio data transmitted as a result of making a phone call; data transmitted between a motor vehicle and a wireless communications device located in the vehicle; data transmitted by a two-way radio, citizens band radio, or amateur radio used in accordance with Federal Communications Commission rules and regulations; or data transmitted automatically without direct initiation by a person.

(c) "Voice-activated or hands-free mode" means an attachment, accessory, wirelessly paired or tethered capability, application, wireless connection, or built-in feature of a wireless communications device or a motor vehicle that allows the person to use verbal or single touch commands to:

(1) activate or deactivate the device; and

(2) activate or deactivate a function or software application of the device.

Voice-activated or hands-free mode does not include typing or scrolling on a device.

(d) For purposes of this section, a motor vehicle is not in motion or a part of traffic if the vehicle is lawfully stopped, is in a location that is not designed or ordinarily used for vehicular travel, and is not obstructing traffic.