| Tuesday, 08 February 2011 10:18 |
| A bill that would outlaw texting while driving has passed its first test in the South Dakota Legislature. The Senate Judiciary Committee voted 6-1 Tuesday to endorse the bill and send it to the full Senate. The measure would make it a misdemeanor punishable by up to 30 days in a jail and a $500 fine for a driver to compose, read or send an electronic text message while operating a vehicle. The bill does not prohibit the use of cell phones. Exemptions are allowed for texting in an emergency, texting while legally parked, or using voice-operated or hands-free technology. People supporting the bill say it would reduce accidents and save lives. One opponent says distracted drivers can be charged under existing laws, and the proposed fine is too high. AP |

