1/17/07-Rep. Steve Farley, D-Tucson, has introduced a bill that targets people who drive distracted. HB2129 focuses on people who send or read text messages while driving.
The bill would exempt attempts to contact emergency personnel. It also excludes commercial driver's license holders as long as the devices are being used "while driving within the scope of their employment."
Violators would receive warnings - not tickets - until Jan. 31, 2008. After that, they would face $50 fines. Anyone who causes a crash would face fines up to $200.
The bill is in House committees.
For House bill status, call (602) 926-4221. In Arizona, call 1-800-352-8404.