Iowa panel backs texting ban

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — A House committee has approved a limited ban on motorists using their cell phones to send text messages while motoring down the highway.

Republican Rep. Dave Tjepkes, a retired Iowa State Patrol trooper from Gowrie, says texting is the worst of many distractions facing drivers.

The House Transportation Committee approved the measure Tuesday on a 20-1 vote, sending it to the full House.

If it becomes law, the measure would delay enforcement for a year, requiring officers to only hand out warnings. When it takes effect, violators would be fined a minimum of $65.

Republican Rep. Nick Wagner, of Marion, cast the only vote against the measure, saying he doesn't think government intrusion is needed on the issue.

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