The House Public Policy Committee unanimously approved a bill that would ban texting while driving for all Indiana drivers. House Bill (HB) 1279 provides that anyone who uses a telecommunications device to transmit a text message or electronic mail message while operating a moving motor vehicle would commit a Class C infraction, which carries a maximum fine of $500. The bill now advances to the full House for further consideration.

Legislatures in 23 states are considering legislation to restrict texting while driving. Nineteen states and the District of Columbia already have enacted laws that ban texting for all drivers. Ten states, including Indiana, ban texting for teen drivers only. Also this week, the federal government enacted an immediate ban on the use of handheld devices by interstate truckers and operators of vehicles carrying at least eight passengers. Violators will face penalties of up to $2,750.