Texting Ban Measure Fails 021810 (audio)

Air Date:02/18/2010

By Eryn Clement
 
A measure that bans texting while driving failed Wednesday in the State House. A motion was passed for reconsideration so the issue could return for more debate. The bill would not have applied to talking on a cell phone but only to sending and receiving text messages.

Legislation to prohibit texting while driving has hit a dead end in the South Dakota Legislature. Opponents of house bill 1178 voiced concern that the measure impedes on personal rights and is an attempt at legislating behavior. Those in favor believe the bill can save several lives and sends a clear message that people need to keep their eyes on the road. The bill's sponsors fell four votes short of getting it passed in the House.

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