Texting while driving in the state of Florida will now be a primary driving offense punishable by fines under a new law signed by Governor Ron DeSantis on Friday.
Under the current law, police officers can only cite drivers for texting if they are already stopped for another violation. The new law allows officers to stop motorists for texting alone.
A first offense is punishable by a $30 fine, and $60 for a second offense. Court costs and fees also would apply.
This new texting while driving law takes effect on July 1. Warnings will be given until January, when law enforcement can begin writing tickets.
The texting ban does not apply to a driver using a navigation device or system or to a driver whose vehicle is stationary.
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