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For Immediate
Release
11/1/11
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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
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