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For Immediate Release
November 1, 2011
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Senate Approves Tomlinson's Texting-While-Driving Ban,
Sends Bill to Governor
HARRISBURG -- The Senate today approved legislation sponsored Sen. Tommy
Tomlinson (R-Bucks) that would make Pennsylvania roads safer by prohibiting
drivers from texting while driving, sending the measure to the Governor for his
signature.
Senate Bill 314 would make texting while driving a primary offense, meaning
that police can pull over motorists for sending or receiving text messages from
a wireless communication device. Drivers who violate the law would face a $50
fine.
"Pennsylvania will join 34 other states in enacting texting-while-driving
bans – it's one of the most important things we can do to prevent needless
tragedies," Tomlinson said. "Texting is one of the most dangerous distracted
driving activities that motorists engage in. When you text, you have to take
your eyes off the road, you aren't paying attention, and the consequences can be
deadly."
A recent study by a safe-driving institute found that drivers who text are 23
times more likely to be in an accident.
Once enacted, the texting ban will supersede and pre-empt all local
ordinances related to the use of an interactive wireless communication device.
Contact:
Fran Cleaver
(717) 787-5072 |
