10 Jul 40 States Now Ban Texting While Driving

Originally posted on https://www.ghsa.org

Hawaii Becomes 40th State to Act Since 2007

WASHINGTON, D.C.—The Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) congratulates the State of Hawaii for becoming the 40th state to ban texting while driving. The new law, signed on Monday by Governor Neil Abercrombie, also prohibits hand-held cell phone use while driving. There are now 11 states with this provision.

GHSA Executive Director Barbara Harsha applauded Hawaii’s action. “Congratulations to the governor, legislature and Hawaii Department of Transportation for this important safety achievement. This action sends an important message to all Hawaii drivers: cell phone use and driving do not mix.”

Harsha added, “It’s remarkable that 40 states have acted on the texting issue since 2007. While more work remains, states have quickly responded to the emerging problem of distracted driving.”

Texting bans are pending in Florida and Texas. GHSA encourages every state to enact both texting and hand-held bans for all drivers.

Find all state distracted driving laws at: www.ghsa.org/html/stateinfo/laws/cellphone_laws.html.