40 States Now Ban Texting While Driving

Hawaii has become the 40th state to ban texting while driving after Gov. Neil Abercrombie (D) signed the new law on Monday.

The measure also prohibits handheld cellphone use while driving. Eleven states now ban such cellphone use, according to the Governors Highway Safety Association.

“It’s remarkable that 40 states have acted on the texting issue since 2007,” said association executive director Barbara Harsha “While more work remains, states have quickly responded to the emerging problem of distracted driving.”

Texting bans are pending in Florida and Texas, the association said.

The federal government prohibits truck drivers from texting or talking on handheld cellphones while driving.