7/8/08-Gov. Bobby Jindal signed a bill into law that outlaws text messaging while driving. It took effect July 1.
Previously SB137, the new law also prohibits cell phone use by young drivers. Hand-held and hands-free devices are off limits for drivers with learner’s permits or intermediate licenses.
Violators would face fines up to $175. Repeat offenders would pay as much as $500. Wrecks caused from use of the wireless devices would result in double fines.
Exceptions will be made for emergencies. Of particular interest to truckers, CB radios and other similar devices also will be exempted.

6/24/08-The House voted 70-19 to approve a bill that would outlaw text messaging while driving.
Sponsored by Sen. Julie Quinn, R-Metairie, SB137 now advances to Gov. Bobby Jindal’s desk because the Senate concurred with House changes.
The bill also would make hand-held and hands-free devices off limits for drivers with learner’s permits or intermediate licenses.
Violators would face fines up to $175. Repeat offenders would pay as much as $500. Wrecks caused from use of the wireless devices would result in double fines.
Violations would be a secondary offense – meaning a person would have to be pulled over for another violation, such as speeding, before they could be ticketed.
Exceptions would be made for emergencies. Of particular interest to truckers, CB radios and other similar devices also would be exempted.
For bill status, call (225) 342-2456. In Louisiana, call 1-800-256-3793.

6/12/08-The House Transportation, Highways and Public Works Committee voted to approve a bill that would outlaw text messaging while driving.
Sponsored by Sen. Julie Quinn, R-Metairie, SB137 also would make hand-held and hands-free devices off limits for drivers with learner’s permits or intermediate licenses.
Violators would face fines up to $175. Repeat offenders would pay as much as $500. Wrecks caused from use of the wireless devices would result in double fines.
Violations would be a secondary offense – meaning a person would have to be pulled over for another violation, such as speeding, before they could be ticketed.
Exceptions would be made for emergencies.
The bill is awaiting final consideration on the House floor. If approved there, it must be returned to the Senate to sign off on changes before moving to Gov. Bobby Jindal’s desk.
For bill status, call (225) 342-2456. In Louisiana, call 1-800-256-3793.

5/21/08-The Senate voted 25-10 to approve a bill that would outlaw text messaging while driving. It now moves to the House.
Sponsored by Sen. Julie Quinn, R-Metairie, SB137 also would prohibit the use of certain mobile devices by young drivers.
Handheld cell phones would be off limits for drivers with learner’s permits or intermediate licenses. An amendment made to the bill would continue to allow the use of hands-free devices.
It would be a secondary offense to drive while using a hand-held phone or texting – meaning a person would have to be pulled over for another violation, such as speeding, before they could be ticketed.
Violators would face fines up to $175. Repeat offenders would pay as much as $500. Wrecks caused from use of the wireless devices would result in double fines.
Exceptions would be made for emergency calls.
The bill is in the House Transportation, Highways and Public Works Committee.
For bill status, call (225) 342-2456. In Louisiana, call 1-800-256-3793.

4/30/08-The Senate Transportation, Highways and Public Works Committee approved a bill that would make hand-held and hands-free devices off limits for drivers with learner’s permits or intermediate licenses. Emergency calls would be exempted.
Sponsored by Sen. Julie Quinn, R-Metairie, SB137 would fine violators up to $175. Repeat offenders would pay as much as $500. The fines would double if cell phone use is determined to be a factor in a wreck.
The bill is awaiting consideration on the Senate floor.
For bill status, call (225) 342-2456. In Louisiana, call 1-800-256-3793.