Florida's new texting law goes into effect on Monday, July 1st.
This new law will make texting while driving a primary offense. Under current law, officers can only cite drivers for texting if they are pulled over for another violation. However, the new law allows officers to stop motorists simply for texting alone.
The new law will also ban the use of any handheld wireless communications devices in school and construction zones.
A first offense will be punishable by a $30 fine, with a second costing $60. Court costs and fees also would apply and points will be added to licenses. Although the law goes into effect on July 1, warnings will be given until January, when officers can begin writing citations.
The texting ban does not apply to a driver using a navigation device or system or to a driver whose vehicle is stationary.
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