Arizona Senate bill would prohibit texting and driving in the state

PHOENIX — A bill introduced into the Arizona state Senate would crack down on texting and driving in the state.

The bill would prohibit texting and driving while in a motor vehicle unless the car is stopped. While it would not allow most phone use while driving, certain activities, like using their phone for navigation or to play music, would be acceptable.

The bill also exempts those who are using their messaging system to report crimes or reading what they believe to be a concern or emergency.

The Senate bill would cost first-time offenders a fine somewhere between $25 and $99, with a second offense costing up to $200.

Introduced in January, the bipartisan bill is sponsored by state Sen. Steve Farley (D-Tucson), a longtime proponent of texting-while-driving laws.

Farley has introduced similar laws in the past but has been unable to pass any substantial legislation.

The new law comes as Arizona vehicle safety laws ranked among the worst in the country, according to highway safety advocates.

The bill has passed a Transportation and Technology Committee vote this week.

However, previous attempts to pass this type of legislation have made it past committee but died because there was no further hearing.