FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 11, 2011
Contact: Jonathan Adkins or Kara Macek
(202)789-0942, ext. 13 or ext. 14
(202)669-9746, cell
Indiana Enacts Texting While Driving Ban
32 States Have Acted Since 2007
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Yesterday, Indiana became the 32nd state to ban texting while driving for all drivers. The Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) congratulates Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels, the State Legislature and GHSA's member, the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute.
The new law is primary enforcement—meaning law enforcement officers can ticket a driver solely on the basis of texting while driving. The law becomes effective July 1 and includes a fine of up to $500 on drivers caught texting.
Washington State was the first state to enact a texting ban in May of 2007. Since that time, 31 other states have acted. Legislation is pending in Missouri and Nevada, among other states.
For a full list of state laws regulating texting and cell phone use while driving, visit:
www.ghsa.org/html/stateinfo/laws/cellphone_laws.html.
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The Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA)® is a nonprofit association representing the highway safety offices of states, territories, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. GHSA provides leadership and representation for the states and territories to improve traffic safety, influence national policy, enhance program management and promote best practices. Its members are appointed by their Governors to administer federal and state highway safety funds and implement state highway safety plans. Contact GHSA at 202-789-0942 or visit www.ghsa.org. Find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GHSAhq.