Texas Senate approves texting ban
This week, the Texas Senate voted on an amendment from Sen. Judith Zaffirini that could eventually ban texting while driving in Texas.
The original purpose of House Bill 242 was regarding the authority of certain retired peace officers to carry certain firearms. Another bill meant to ban texting while driving, House Bill 243, failed to get through committee in the Senate. Sen. Zaffirni was able to convince the Senate to act on the issue, and her amendment was approved in a 19-10 vote.
“Keeping Texans safe on our highways is among my top priorities in the Texas Senate,” Senator Zaffirini said. “Prohibiting texting while driving would send a clear message that this activity poses a serious danger and would undoubtedly save lives.”
The measure is also receiving positive reviews from the Texas Department of Transportation.
“Every 1 out of 4 accidents in Texas are caused by distracted driving,” said Gene Powell from the Texas Department of Transportation. “If we can cut out 25% of the wrecks in Texas by paying attention to what we’re doing, that would be a significant savings in lives, injuries, property losses, lost work time.”
The bill is now being sent back to the House to seek final approval.
Source: KLTV, May 26, 2011; CBS7, May 26, 2011
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