Local Reps Vote for Texting-And-Driving ban

State Representatives Dick Adams (79th dist.) and Jim Zehringer (77th dist.) voted today to ban "texting-while-driving." House Bill 415:

• Prohibits driving a vehicle while using an electronic communications device to write, send, or read a text-based communication.
• Establishes certain exemptions to the prohibition, including a person using an electronic communications device for emergency purposes and a person driving a public safety vehicle who uses such a device in the course of the person's duties.
• Provides that for the first six months after the effective date of the bill no ticket, citation, or summons may be issued for a violation of the new prohibition established by the bill, only a warning that provides information about the prohibition. After the warning period, you can be fined up to $150.

Zehringer debated his vote to the very end, noting that texting is now specifically banned while other dangerous activities (such as putting on makeup or doing a crossword puzzle) are not addressed. Zehringer was also concerned about more legislation involving "government telling us what to do," but ultimately was swayed by the safety concerns. The final vote was 86-12.

The ban applies not only to motor vehicles, but also trackless trolleys for some reason. Seriously - check out the bill.