Two local State Representatives voted in favor of a bill supporting a statewide ban on texting while driving, during today's session.
Representatives Four Price and John Smithee both voted in favor of HB 62, which would institute a statewide ban on texting while driving. Representative Ken King, who represents a nearby state legislature district also voted in favor of the measure.
The measure had been heavily debated among members from both sides of the isle. The bill which was authored by Representative Tom Craddick has been praised by House Speaker Joe Straus as "common-sense" legislation. Craddick has sought passage of the bill for several sessions.
If passed into law, the bill would impose a misdemeanor charge and penalties of $25 to $99 for those who violate the law.
Not all of the Texas House supported the legislation. According to the Texas Tribune, Representative Harold Dutton, Jr. (D-Houston) blasted the bill saying, "I find it absolutely incredulous, except for Superman, who can tell what you are doing on your phone."
The final vote in the Texas House was 113-32 in favor of passage of the bill.
