Cuomo signs texting-while-driving bill
In this file photo, New York State Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo and New York State Senate Majority Leader Dean Skelos speak to the media. Gov. Andrew Cuomo has vetoed a bill that would have let school districts issue bonds for pensions. (June 30, 2011) Credit: Charles Eckert
New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo has signed into law a bill that will allow police to stop motorists they see texting while driving.
Previously, police could only cite a driver for the traffic violation of distracted driving if they were stopped primarily for another offense, such as speeding.
Thirty-four states as well as the District of Columbia and Guam already make texting while driving a primary violation.
The bill was passed by the Legislature this year and signed Tuesday. Drivers will face up to a $150 fine for texting while driving.
Cuomo will also seek tougher penalties through regulation for texting and talking on a cell phone.
The new law comes after texting contributed to several fatal accidents in New York.
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