Texting ban clears hurdle

For the third time since 2011, the Texas House has passed a ban on texting while driving.

House Bill 80 by Rep. Tom Craddick would make texting while driving a misdemeanor offense throughout the state, subject to a fine of up to $99 on the first offense and $200 for additional infractions.

The measure was set for another vote in the House before it moves to the Senate, and then hopefully to the governor’s desk for his signature.

A patchwork of local ordinances bans the practice in at least 40 cities and counties, including Arlington. But Texas has been slow to follow 44 other states in adopting a broader measure.

That could change this session if Gov. Greg Abbott, who during his campaign indicated that he shared his predecessor’s opposition to state and local bans on texting while driving, changes his tune.

We certainly wouldn’t criticize the governor for flip-flopping on a common-sense measure that according to one recent report could save 90 lives a year.

The Legislature should pass the bill and the governor should sign it.

Maybe three times is the charm.

This story was originally published March 26, 2015 at 6:01 PM with the headline "Texting ban clears hurdle."