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Distracted Driving Policy (SAF 2) Amendment #1
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DESCRIPTION: Authorization to Amend Distracted Driving Policy (SAF2) |
AGENDA NO: Click or tap here to enter text. |
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ACTION REQUEST: ☒ Approval ☐ Review Comment ☐ Information Only ☐ Other |
RECOMMENDATION:
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To authorize the Chief Executive Officer to amend the Distracted Driving Policy as presented to align with current safety standards, mitigate risk and promote safe and responsible vehicle operation.
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ISSUE/BACKGROUND:
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This is ongoing work policy to assist in developing best practices and being in compliance with required laws.
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DISCUSSION:
RTA Board previously adopted a Distracted Driving Policy (SAF2) on February 23, 2021. As a continuous improvement initiative and to stay aligned with state laws and industry best practices, RTA revised the policy. With the proliferation of electronic devices and in-vehicle infotainment system use while driving, it is especially important to have consistent policies and procedures in place in this area. Safety staff engaged with department chiefs and staff to review this policy ensuring ease of use and consistency. Safety staff followed policy review procedures and the approved document format.
Summary of SAF2 changes include:
• Entire rewrite of the General Section 1.0
• Clarified different provisions and guidelines for revenue vehicle and non-revenue vehicle operation
• Updated policy to align with Louisiana Revised Statute §32:59, which went into effect August 1, 2025
• Revised definitions for “company vehicle” and “electronic device” in Section 3.0 - Definition of Terms. The terms align with industry standards and guidelines for distracted driving.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
Adoption of the policy will have no direct impact on RTA expenditures or revenues.
NEXT STEPS:
Following Board approval, the department of Safety, Security & Emergency Management, in coordination with relevant departments, will distribute, implement and enforce the policy.
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Resolution
2. RTA Distracted Driving Policy (SAF2) CLEAN
3. RTA Distracted Driving Policy (SAF2) REDLINE
Prepared By: Ivana C. Butler
Title: Administrative Analyst
Reviewed By: Michael J. Smith
Title: Chief Safety, Security, and Emergency Management Officer
Reviewed By: Seandra Allen Buchanan
Title: Chief Human Resources Officer
2/4/2026
Lona Edwards Hankins Date
Chief Executive Officer