The Oklahoma House has approved legislation to ban texting and driving in the state.
Without debate, the House voted 85-7 for the bill Wednesday and sent it to Gov. Mary Fallin for her signature. Applause broke out in the chamber after the bill by Republican Rep. Terry O'Donnell of Tulsa was approved.
Lawmakers approved the bill after accepting an amendment by the Senate that makes texting and driving a primary offense, meaning Oklahoma drivers could be pulled over and ticketed for texting while driving alone without committing any another traffic offense.
The bill is named for two state troopers who were struck by a motorist who authorities say was distracted by his phone. If signed into law, the bill goes into effect Nov. 1.
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