[r48] House Passes Bill to Ban Texting While Driving (2/9/2010)

Tuesday, February 9, 2010

Start Date: 2/9/2010 All Day
End Date: 2/9/2010

STATEHOUSE-Rep. Tim Neese (R-Elkhart) joined House members today in passing House Bill (HB) 1279, which would make it illegal to text while driving by a vote of 95-3.

The bill will make it a Class C infraction to text while driving. HB 1279 would allow for drivers to use a hand free or voice operated accessory on their cell phone. A Class C infraction is punishable by a fine up to $500. There are currently 19 states plus the District of Columbia that prohibit texting while driving.

"The habit of texting while driving is getting worse by the day and it's putting drivers at risk," Rep. Neese said. "This bill is a positive step to help keep our roads and drivers safe."