Lawmakers target texting, talking while driving

TALLAHASSEE (WWSB) - Florida lawmakers have now filed three separate bills in Tallahassee that all aim to crack down on distracted driving.

Representative Jackie Toledo of Tampa filed a measure on Monday that would make it illegal for drivers to text or talk on hand-held cell phones while driving.

Right now, texting while driving is illegal in Florida, but it is a secondary offense, meaning drivers can only be cited if they are stopped for other infractions, such as running stop signs or speeding.

Toledo's bill would make it a primary offense.

Law enforcement officers would be able to stop motorists just for texting or talking on hand-held cell phones.

Toledo was a co-sponsor of a similar House measure during the 2018 session, but the proposal did not advance in the Senate amid concerns about issues such as minority drivers facing increased racial profiling.

Two other similar bills have been filed for the 2019 legislative session, which starts in March.