State, Federal Texting Bans Announced

Drivers who text take their eyes off the road for 4.6 seconds out of every six seconds. At 55 miles per hour, this means the driver is cruising the length of a football field blind.

Both federal and state officials made moves to put it to a stop today.

A bill to fine motorists texting or using cell phones without hands-free devices passed through the state House of Representatives Tuesday, stating that anyone talking or texting on a cell phone, or using an electronic device for most other purposes, will be fined $50.

There are exemptions to police, emergency responders and others.

"I supported this bill because it is a public safety issue," said state Rep. Galloway, who is a co-sponsor of the bill. "Talking on a handheld cell phone or texting while driving are dangerous practices that need to stop. Penalizing drivers who engage in them is the best way to encourage all drivers to pay full attention while behind the wheel."
 
On the federal level, the Department of Transportation announced Tuesday an immediate ban on text messaging for truck and bus driver on the road.

The ban applies to drivers of interstate buses and trucks over 10,000 pounds. Truck and bus drivers who text while driving commercial vehicles may be subject to civil or criminal penalties of up to $2,750.