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Federal road money tied to ban on texting while driving
A new wrinkle in the Florida debate about a ban on text messaging while driving: federal highway funds.
New York Sen. Charles Schumer introduced a bill to require states to approve a ban on texting while driving or lose 25 percent of federal highway money. Based on 2005 figures, the Florida portion equals nearly $196 million, state Rep. Doug Holder told lawmakers Wednesday.
If Florida approves regulations on texting while driving, the state also would be eligible for an additional $3 million in existing federal transit funds, he added.
It's an issue that adds even more political implications to the legislation. Already, many Republican lawmakers are wary of infringing on personal responsibility. But they also generally oppose accepting federal money with strings attached.
The House Roads, Bridges and Ports Policy Committee is discussing six bills involving texting bans, and Chairman Gary Aubuchon, R-Cape Coral, hopes to emerge with a consensus measure this session.
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