Texting while driving ban signed into law

To protect Kansans while they are on the road, Governor Mark Parkinson signed House Substitute for SB 300, a ban against texting while driving.

"As we head into Memorial Day weekend and the summer, one of the busiest driving times for Kansans, I am please to sign this legislation that will encourage more aware drivers and save Kansas lives," Parkinson said.

House Substitute for SB 300 prohibits a person who is operating a motor vehicle on a public road from texting -- using a wireless communication device to write, send, or read a written communication. The bill includes exceptions for law enforcement and emergency service personnel; receiving emergency, traffic, or weather related messages; reporting illegal activity to law enforcement; and using a wireless communications device to make or receive a phone call. Law enforcement will be required to issue a warning citation for violations until January 1, 2011. The fine for unlawful texting will be $60.

Lieutenant Governor Troy Findley called on the legislature to pass the ban on texting while driving earlier in the session.

"This bill was a bipartisan, common sense solution that I was glad to see the legislature take a proactive approach on," Findley said. "As technology continues to advance, we must remain alert of its dangerous effects and continue to take the necessary action to protect Kansans."

The legislation also further amends Kansas law regarding traffic regulation by prohibiting the display of a vehicle license plate that is covered with any material that affects the plate's visibility or reflexivity. The fine for this violation would be $60. Additionally, the bill also makes it a violation of Kansas law to allow or permit a person under the age 18 to operate or ride a motorcycle or motorized bike without a helmet or eye protection. Finally, the bill extends the period from 20 to 25 years that a school bus can be operated if the bus meets all necessary requirements.

The bill takes effect upon its publication in the Kansas Register.

Parkinson signed an additional five bills Monday, bringing the total number of bills signed during the 2010 Legislative Session to 155.