Iowa texting while driving ban could get quick OK

By MIKE GLOVER

DES MOINES, Iowa

A compromise emerged Thursday on proposals aiming to protect Iowa drivers, with lawmakers agreeing to ban all drivers from texting while driving and barring those under age 18 from using cell phones at all.

"When they are learning how to drive, that's what they should be doing, learning, not any of the other distractions," said Sen. Jeff Danielson, D-Cedar Falls.

Legislators worked out differences between House and Senate versions of the bills, and House Speaker Pat Murphy expected quick legislative approval. The governor has said he'd support a ban on texting while driving, but hasn't commented on the specifics of the compromise.

The plan bans drivers from writing, reading or sending text messages while driving, and increases penalties for drivers whose texting leads to an accident. An accident that causes serious injury would result in a $500 fine, and an accident involving a death would be a $1,000 fine.

Police would not be able to stop motorists simply on suspicion of sending or reading text messages, but would need to see an overt action such as a driver swerving to stop the vehicle.

Those who opposed the measure during House and Senate negotiations said banning cell phone use would amount to unnecessary government intrusion.

Lobbyists representing the trucking industry successfully advocated for an exemption for truckers and bus drivers, who must use on-board computers for directions and delivery instructions. Drivers of emergency vehicles also received an exemption.

If the bill is passed into law, enforcement would be delayed while state transportation officials launch a statewide public education program. It would be similar to efforts used to publicize the state's mandated seat belt use.

After a year of non-enforcement, "compliance starts shooting straight up," said Rep. David Tjepkes, R-Gowrie, a retired Iowa State Patrol trooper.

Rep. Curt Hanson, D-Fairfield, a retired driver education teacher, urged quick passage of the bill because lawmakers were pushing to end this year's shortened legislative session soon. Danielson acknowledged that compromises had to be made to ensure the bill's passage.

"This is a good compromise, but it is a compromise," Danielson said.