Florida Lawmakers Eye Major Crackdown on Phone Use Behind the Wheel
Drivers Would Be Forced To Go Fully Hands-Free Under Proposed Changes
Florida lawmakers are pushing to ban all handheld phone use while driving - even at red lights. Under proposed legislation, that quick text check or GPS adjustment could cost you $150 and points on your license. The bills aim to close a loophole many drivers have relied on, treating stopped traffic the same as moving vehicles.
Currently, Florida’s distracted driving laws allow some wiggle room when cars aren’t in motion. But legislators argue that any phone handling behind the wheel creates danger, pointing to rising accident rates linked to distraction. If passed, the new rules would require full hands-free compliance statewide, with escalating penalties for repeat offenders. Even resting a phone on your lap could technically violate the law, forcing Florida drivers to choose: mount it, voice-control it, or leave it alone entirely.
Parking Crackdown Hits Non-HOA Neighborhoods Hard in Boynton Beach
Boynton Beach residents filled the February 3, 2026 commission meeting to protest new parking rules that took effect February 1. Much of the criticism centered on Ordinance 14–5, which bans parking on grass, swales, and easements - regulations many south Boynton residents say unfairly impact non-HOA neighborhoods. Older homes built in the 1950s and ’60s often lack sufficient driveway or garage space, leaving homeowners with limited options.
While residents understand the city’s safety concerns, including access for emergency vehicles, many say compliance comes at a steep financial and logistical cost. Without HOAs, those burdens fall entirely on individual homeowners. District Commissioner Thomas Turkin said the city hopes education and cooperation will come before enforcement and emphasized a willingness to work with residents to achieve compliance.
🎉This Week’s Featured Events
The Kravis Center, located at 701 Okeechobee Blvd in West Palm Beach, presents MJ The Musical from February 10–15. Celebrating the life and creative genius of Michael Jackson, this high-energy production features unforgettable music and choreography. Showtimes vary, and tickets are selling fast. Visit kravis.org to secure your seats.
A FREE, library-sponsored online class, The Dark Side of AI – Risks, Concerns, & What You Should Know, takes place Friday, February 13, from 2:00–3:00 pm. This online-only session explores the risks, challenges, and concerns surrounding artificial intelligence. It will help participants better understand and navigate this rapidly evolving technology. A participation link will be emailed after registration. Space is limited to 45 attendees, so register early at bbflpl.libcal.com.
Say It Loud: It’s Your World, a Black History Month featured event, will be held February 15 at 4:00 pm at the Boynton Beach Arts & Cultural Center, 125 E. Ocean Ave in downtown Boynton Beach. Blending film, live music, and visual arts, the program offers a powerful look at the Black experience - past and present - while celebrating Black excellence. Tickets are $35. More details are available in the calendar section at boynton-beach.org.
🤔 Did You Know?
The Boynton Beach City Historic Resources and Preservation Board oversees 170 historic sites, including homes, businesses, churches, cemeteries, bridges, and social clubs. The Board also maintains two heritage trails - one featuring 30 downtown sites and another highlighting three historic cemeteries.
Read the full article on hand-free driving. Click here.
Heritage trail looks cool, had no idea