Governor Vetoes Texting While Driving Ban

On June 17, 2011, sources say Governor Rick Perry vetoed H.B. 242, a bill which would have banned texting while driving on Texas roads.  Governor Perry was quoted as saying, “I support measures that make our roads safer for everyone, but House Bill 242 is a government effort to micromanage the behavior of adults.”

Reportedly, the law already currently prohibits drivers under the age of 18 from texting or using a cell phone while driving.  However, sources say the legislators who drafted the bill have already expressed their disappointment with Perry’s decision.  State Senator Judith Zaffirini was quoted as saying, “from my opinion there will be blood on his hands, every time that we hear about a tragedy related to distracted driving…I hope that is forwarded to the Governor.”