Florida lawmakers could get one step closer on Thursday to strengthening the state’s texting while driving law.
Currently a law enforcement officer in the Sunshine State can’t pull over a person just for texting while driving.
Classified as a secondary offense, law enforcement have to have another reason that leads them to pull over a driver besides just texting.
However, that would all change if this new bill being debated in Tallahassee is passed.
It would allow law enforcement officers to stop you if they see you texting while driving.
The House is expected to approve the measure Thursday, but the bill has stalled in the Senate.
Some lawmakers worry the new law would be used to target black drivers.
The proposal requires police to tell drivers they can decline a phone search when they are pulled over.
Boca Raton Rep. Emily Slosberg sponsors the legislation.
Forty-three states have laws that make texting-while-driving a primary offense. Florida is only among four states that makes it a secondary offense.
Drivers in the Sunshine State currently face a $60 fine for texting-while-driving.
