Updated: 10/20/2009 1:51 PM KSTP.com | Print |  Email

Wis. Senate Passes Texting While Driving Ban

MADISON, Wis. (AP) - Texting would be banned for all Wisconsin drivers under a bill that passed the state Senate on Tuesday.

The measure originally would have applied only to drivers under age 18. But the Senate voted to change it to apply to all drivers after some lawmakers objected to limiting it only to young drivers. They argued if it's unsafe for younger drivers, it's unsafe for all.

A similar bill covering all drivers awaits debate in the Assembly.

The bill passed prohibits drivers from sending a text message using a cell phone, I-Phone, Blackberry or other similar device.

The penalties would be between $20 and $400, the same as disorderly driving.

The bill passed 27-5.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)