HARRISBURG – Sen. John N. Wozniak supported passage of a statewide ban on texting while driving, calling it “in the best interests of public safety.”
By a vote of 45-5, the Senate concurred in the House changes to Senate Bill 314 sending the measure to Gov. Tom Corbett for his signature. Wozniak said his initial instinct to resist more government intervention in personal behavior was overcome by concerned constituents.
“It has become clear that there is a growing number of people who are watching their thumbs and not watching the road,” Wozniak said. “And there is also a growing number of people frightened by this dangerous behavior. This is in the best interests of public safety.”
Senate Bill 314 amends the Vehicle Code by creating a new section (3316) that prohibits all drivers from texting while operating a motor vehicle. In June, the Senate approved a Wozniak amendment making texting while driving a secondary offense. The version passed by the Senate today makes it a primary offense that carries a $50 fine, but no points.
“I would rather see people take responsibility for their own behavior without government intervention,” Wozniak said. “But that’s not happening and some drivers need a reminder to pay attention.”