New cell phone restrictions for drivers Published Nov. 4, 2009 By Tech. Sgt. Louis Rivers 20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. -- Drivers on any military installation, and operators of government-owned, leased or rented vehicles on or off an Air Force installation, may not use cell phones while the vehicle is in operation except when using a hands-free device or hands-free operating mode, according to the updated Air Force Instruction 91-207. "Please keep in mind the 'hands-free' mode doesn't mean you won't be involved in a mishap," said Scott Eck, 20th Fighter Wing ground safety manager. "Operating a motor vehicle requires 100 percent of your attention. Distracted driving is becoming a serious problem on our roadways whether it is cell phones, changing a CD or eating while driving. "A good rule is to only use your phone when absolutely necessary," he said. "The same rules that apply to cell phone use apply to texting. (The) AFI . . . gives the guidance on cell phone use, and while it doesn't specifically mention texting, it prohibits the use of cell phones except in a hands-free mode, thus prohibiting texting." President Barack Obama signed an executive order Oct. 1, 2009, specifically prohibiting texting by federal employees while driving a GOV, or when driving privately-owned vehicles while on official government business, or when using electronic equipment supplied by the government while driving. All personnel assigned to Shaw Air Force Base, including dependents, are affected by this policy. According to Emile Stevens, reports and analysis manager with the 20th Security Forces Squadron, "using a cell phone while driving, without a hands-free device will be considered a 'primary offense,' meaning violators may be stopped solely for this offense." The vehicle operator must have a Bluetooth device, ear piece or dash mount for the cell phone. Holding the cell phone in the hand is not hands free and will result in a vehicle operator being cited.