Texas Governor Vetoes Texting While Driving Ban

A bill that would make text messaging while driving illegal for all drivers in Texas was one of 23 different laws that were vetoed by Texas Governor Rick Perry this week. While Perry agreed that using a mobile device while driving is dangerous and irresponsible, he also said that the law banning such actions represented an example of the government telling adults what to do. Instead of a law to make texting while driving illegal, Perry suggested educating drivers through campaigns and driver’s ed programs regarding the dangers of using a cell phone while driving.

Currently, about 30 states ban texting while driving, while a handful have banned the use of all cellular devices while driving. Many states ban teen texting while driving – and more texting while driving laws are being passed each year across the country. Currently in Dallas, texting is only illegal when driving through a school zone. The proposed texting ban in Texas would have pinned a $200 fine on drivers found using their smartphones while behind the wheel.

Several studies have should that texting while driving greatly increases the chances of a car accident. However, new studies have shown that texting laws may be ineffective and that it can be difficult for police officers to enforce texting laws effectively.