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Rep. Sheppard’s plan to reduce texting while driving in Michigan approved by Transportation Committee
RELEASE|May 1, 2019

The House Transportation Committee today approved a plan introduced by state Rep. Jason Sheppard to help reduce distracted driving on Michigan roads.

Sheppard’s plan aims to discourage distracted driving by increasing the penalty for texting while driving in Michigan. The plan raises the penalty from $100 for a first violation to $250, and from $200 for a second violation up to $500.

This plan is part of a bipartisan package that would add reading an email or sending a message on cellphone social media apps to the list of banned activities for drivers and also limits new drivers under the age of 18 or with a level 1 or level 2 graduated license from talking or listening to a cellphone call while driving except in the case of an emergency.

“Distracted driving is dangerous for everyone on the road — don’t put others at risk,” said Sheppard, of Temperance. “With stricter penalties, this plan will help deter drivers from reckless behavior.  Keeping our eyes on the road will save Michigan lives.”

The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety found that drivers who text are up to eight times as likely to be involved in a crash.

House Bill 4199 now moves to the House Ways and Means Committee for further consideration.

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