In The News: Texas House OK's Bills To Ban Cell Phone Use While Driving

For those who just can’t seem to put down one modern gadget while driving, there’s some bad news: Two bills circulating in the Texas legislature want drivers to put their cell phone down and put both hands on the wheel.

"I've seen people speeding through school zones, if they're on their phone, they're a little less careful with kids around,” said Nicole Robles, from west El Paso.

"It's not a big problem. I think people have become accustomed to the modern convenience of having a cell phone,” said central El Paso resident, Jesus Vasquez.

But lawmakers and some El Pasoans said it's the modern convenience of talking on the cell phone and sending text messages while driving that jeopardizes people's lives. Robles told KFOX she fears for the little ones in her family, after some close calls. "I'm a little scared,” said Robles. “I always walk them to school just to make sure they get there safe, but I've seen some kids get close to getting hit.”

That's why lawmakers have tentatively approved banning the use of hand-held cell phones for all drivers in active school zones. They've also authorized banning teens under the age of 18 from using a cell phone while driving, even if it's hands-free. "They're barely starting to drive and they get a little bit nervous, so with a cell phone it would make it worse,” said Carlos Reyes of west El Paso.

Both bills have an exception -- and it's not allowing drivers to call their employer if they're running late, but the ability to use the phone for emergencies. In school zones, a sign would have to be posted warning drivers that cell phone use was prohibited at certain times.

"I rather have the ban because it's just protecting them; it's protecting our kids,” added Robles.

Recently, eastside city representative Rachel Quintana proposed the measure as a municipal ordinance. While some El Pasoans like the idea, others argue against the proposed law.

"We don't need a new law to tell people, it's seems more like common sense. I think it's kind of pointless,” said Vasquez.

If the Senate and the Governor approve this legislation those caught using a phone in an active school zone would have to pay a maximum fine of $25 for the first time and $50 for subsequent offenses.

There is no word on how much teens would be fined if they're caught using a cell phone on the road -- but the penalty wouldn't go on their record.