News

Athens County Sheriff Pat Kelly says texting has been the cause of many accidents in the area and he's curious to know how the final legislation will read.

 

"Am I in favor of it? For responsible drivers it's not a problem. It's going to be interesting to see what the restrictions are on it," said Kelly.

 

One version of the legislation calls for a six-month grace period before you would be fined. 

 

After that period, drivers caught texting could be fined up to $150.

     

Ohio University student Connor Briggs says the thought of working to obey the possible law will be a challenge for teens and young adults especially.

 

"I'm not the most innocent person, I've texted and driven before, but I had a friend that passed away in a car accident last year and the driver was texting while the accident happened. So, I think it's a good thing. I just think it's one of those things that will be tough to enforce," said Briggs.

 

The Ohio House of Representatives passed House Bill 99 which prohibits texting while driving.

 

It is now up to the Senate whether to continue with the legislation.