House passes tougher punishments for texting and driving

PIERRE, S.D. — Lawmakers in the South Dakota House have passed a bill that would make texting and driving a criminal offense.

Rep. Doug Barthel said he introduced the bill after hearing the stories of people who died in accidents involving a driver who was texting.

Current law allows a fine of $100 for highway drivers who text.

The bill would apply the ban to all roads and anyone using mobile devices for social networking sites.

It would increase violations to a criminal offense, punishable by up to 30 days in jail and a $500 fine.

People are also reading...

Weather

loader-image
Rapid City, US
10:19 am, November 8, 2024
temperature icon 51°F
scattered clouds
Humidity 33 %
Pressure 1023 mb
Wind 6 mph
Wind Gust: 9 mph
Visibility: 10 km
Sunrise: 6:39 am
Sunset: 4:33 pm
Sarah Bestgen

Market News

Share via
Copy link