Drivers face limits on mobile device use while driving

Drivers may not hold a mobile device or use one except in hands-free mode or for listed emergency calls. The rule covers people driving on a highway, including while stopped temporarily in traffic, but not when safely parked on the side or shoulder. Emergency calls to listed responders and health providers are allowed. Hands-free mode allows voice calls or audio without touching the device, except for one touch or swipe to start or stop a function. The rule takes effect October 1, 2026.

State transportation officials may use cameras to enforce rules for lanes that change use during the day. The lanes may be used for carpooling, buses, emergency vehicles, one-way traffic changes, or other highway needs. The law allows certain vehicles and people following police directions to use them. The Department of Transportation may establish a camera program; it is not required to do so. Signs must warn drivers about the lane and whether cameras are operating. Cameras may record only suspected violations, and images may not be used for surveillance. For state violations, the first fine is $75; a repeat within one year may cost up to $200. The vehicle owner is responsible unless an officer cited the driver at the scene. These provisions take effect January 1, 2027.

The Department of Transportation must give written notice before clearing an encampment on state highway land. This applies to outdoor places where people sleep or live in temporary shelters on state highway land. It excludes authorized recreation campsites and certain highway facilities. Notice must be posted in English and Spanish where people enter and in a common area. Notice is not required if the transportation commissioner determines removal is needed for a transportation or public safety emergency and writes down the reasons. The notice must state the date and time of removal and provide at least 14 days’ warning.

School districts must meet zero-emission bus targets, and some municipalities must submit plans. The targets apply to each school district in the state, with an earlier target for districts in distressed municipalities. Each district must have zero-emission buses for at least 90% of its school buses starting in 2040. In a distressed municipality, at least 50% of school buses must be zero-emission starting in 2035. That municipality must submit a plan by July 1, 2029; other municipalities must submit plans by July 1, 2035. State grants may cover part of the funds needed for buses and charging or fueling equipment. State help with planning and applications is limited to available funds and appropriations. The targets begin January 1, 2040, for each district and July 1, 2035, for districts in distressed municipalities. Required plans are due in 2029 or 2035, depending on the municipality.

Rideshare companies must offer safety tools, check drivers’ criminal records yearly, train drivers yearly, and enforce service animal protections. These duties apply to transportation network companies and drivers using their digital networks in Connecticut. Companies must offer location sharing, emergency contact options, optional audio recording with notice and legal compliance, and around-the-clock incident support. Companies must check drivers’ criminal records at least once each year and provide annual sexual assault prevention training. Drivers may not refuse a ride because a rider has a service animal. A company must permanently ban a driver who violates its service animal policy. The service animal protections take effect October 1, 2026. The safety and driver-check requirements take effect January 1, 2027.