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Politics & Government

Question of the Day: Are Texting Laws Effective?

State senate passes driving-while-texting legislation.

The state Senate passed a law Tuesday that will upgrade texting-while-driving from a secondary violation to a primary violation, making it easier for law enforcement to bust distracted drivers. Under the current law, a driver can only be cited for texting-while-driving if another violation, such as speeding, is also being cited, according to a statement from Sen. Kenneth P. LaValle, R-Port Jefferson. The statement goes on to say that the Assembly is expected to pass the bill Tuesday as well. If Gov. Andrew Cuomo signs the legislation, it will become law.

“Text messaging is a distraction that causes drivers to take their focus off the road, and the results are lethal,” LaValle said.

Do you believe the legislation will be effective in reducing texting-while-driving and, therefore, accidents?

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