Alabama Legislature bans texting while driving

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MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP) — The Alabama Legislature has voted to ban texting while driving.

The bill by Republican Rep. Jim McClendon of Springville cleared the House 95-0 and the Senate 28-0 Thursday. It now goes to the governor for signing into law.

The bill prohibits sending text messages, instant messages and e-mails while behind the wheel. It provides exceptions for contacting emergency services and for using global position services.

The bill includes a fine of $25 for a first offense, $50 for a second offense and $75 for a third or subsequent offense.

The Governors Highway Safety Association says 37 states already prohibit texting while driving, including two of Alabama's neighbors: Georgia and Tennessee.

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