COLUMBUS, Ohio — Right now, unless you’re under the age of 18, police officers across Ohio can’t pull you over simply because you’re on your phone while driving. But, a distracted driving bill is now one step closer to changing that.
The bill passed the House Criminal Justice Committee on Tuesday. It now heads to the full House and could be up for a vote as quickly as Wednesday.
Currently, law enforcement in the Buckeye State can only issue a citation for texting while driving if it’s a secondary offense.
But, if eventually signed into law by Gov. Mike DeWine, House Bill 283 would allow police officers in Ohio to pull someone over and issue a ticket solely because a driver is on his or her cellphone.
Of course, there are exceptions, such as using a phone in the event of an emergency.
The bill is sponsored by Reps. Cindy Abrams (R., Harrison) and Brian Lampton (R., Fairborn) and has much support in the Ohio House, but it’s unclear if the backing is as strong in the Senate.
“People are texting constantly on their phones,” said Randell Clayton, a highway technician for the Ohio Department of Transportation.
Clayton’s worked for ODOT for the past 13 years, overseeing construction projects.
“Truthfully I’ve been here 13 years and I’ve never been as nervous or afraid of working on the roads as I do now,” said Clayton. “We do need people to pay attention to what’s going on out there.”
Right now, if you’re ticketed for texting while driving in Ohio, you’re looking at a fine up to $150 and two points against your driver’s license.
But, this bill would up the penalties for subsequent violations during a two-year period up to $500 and fines would be doubled if violations happen in active construction zones.
