Texting and Driving to Mean Ticketing in Cleveland, Ohio

April 15, 2009

Cleveland, Ohio's city council has voted to outlaw text-messaging while driving in the city.

The proposal approved by council members on April 13 now goes to Mayor Frank Jackson and would take effect 90 days after he signs it. Members of the mayor's administration have voiced support for the measure.

First-time violators caught texting behind the wheel would be fined $100. A second offense would cost $250 and any additional citations would bring penalties of up to $500.

The ban was proposed by City Councilman Zack Reed, who says it will make Cleveland's streets safer. He plans to petition the Ohio Legislature to pass a bill to prohibit texting while driving statewide.

At least eight other states already have similar laws.