Florida Senate Advances Bill Banning Texting While Driving

A statewide texting-while-driving ban that has eluded passage for several years is again moving through the Florida Legislature.

The Senate Communications committee meets Wednesday to consider the bill (SB 52). Opponents have long likened it to needless government intrusion, but supporters say the measure will save lives.

The bill outlaws texting by drivers but exempts police and other emergency vehicles.

The proposed law makes texting subject to secondary enforcement. Police could cite drivers for it only if they had been pulled over for another violation such as speeding. A violation would lead to a fine and — if texting resulted in a crash — the driver would be assessed six points. Points lead to increased insurance rates.

Thirty-nine states and the District of Columbia already have bans.

Latest Comments

• March 7, 2013 at 2:01 pm

  V says:

  I wish that we could pass a country wide law against texting and driving. I can't tell you how many close calls I have had from people drifting over into my lane or slowing ab... read more
• March 7, 2013 at 1:51 pm

  Eval Kaneval says:

  While those who text and drive think it is an intrusion, this law is more about the safety of the other people on the road who get crashed into when others are texting. They s... read more
• March 7, 2013 at 1:45 pm

  DJ says:

  Worried it is a "government intrusion"? Kinda like seat belts and restraints "intruded" on our safety. How's that seat belt intrusion working out for you?? Why/who would we NO... read more