New Mexico Lawmakers Consider Texting Ban for Drivers

Democratic Sen. Peter Wirth says he’s optimistic this will be the year New Mexico joins 41 other states in banning texting while driving.

A Senate committee considers a proposal on Tuesday to prohibit drivers from sending or reading a text message and email or making an Internet search from a cell phone or other handheld communications device. There would be a $25 fine for a first violation and $50 for a second violation.

Wirth said texting distracts a driver and increases the chances of a traffic accident.

Senate Majority Leader Michael Sanchez said the proposal is unnecessary because careless driving laws can address the issue.

New Mexico prohibits texting for teenage drivers with a learner’s or provisional license.

Texting bans for all drivers have failed in the Legislature since 2009.