PONTIAC, IL – For their own safety, as well as that of others, drivers should not be texting or checking E-mail on their cell phone while driving, according to State Sen. Dan Rutherford (R-Chenoa). Rutherford has introduced legislation to crack down on such acts.

Senate Bill 29 will prohibit motorists from using their phones or other wireless devices to text message or send other electronic messages while behind the wheel.

“There is new technology and when it is misused, it creates distracted drivers,” Rutherford said. “Problems can be created on our roadways when someone is texting and using one or both hands to send messages. They are not paying attention to the road and their eyes are elsewhere.”

The legislation makes the violation a petty offense punishable by a $75 fine and $200 fine if the violator commits the act during a traffic accident. There are exceptions for usage during emergency situations and if the device is permanently affixed to the vehicle.

“Hopefully people will begin to pull over to a safe place or find a location to park in order to send their text messages,” Rutherford concluded. “Drivers need to retrain their focus on the road instead of typing on a screen while driving.”

Senate Bill 29 was filed on Jan. 30 and still needs the approval of the Illinois General Assembly and Gov. Quinn before it can become law.