I just read that Tennessee Gov. Phil Bredesen has signed a bill into law that will ban reading or sending cell phone text messages while driving. The law, which 20 other states have, will go into effect on July 1. This impacts a tone of people as studies show almost 60 percent of those ages 16 to 19 admit to driving-while-texting, and 49 percent of respondents ages 20 to 29 admit to the dangerous habit.
The offense would be considered a nonmoving traffic violation (which is ironic since you have to be moving) that carries a $50 fine.
It exempts certain officials – such as officers of the state, campus police officers, emergency medical technicians, and pastors – when performing their duties (ok, I made up the pastor part).
Here’s what I want to know…
Is it illegal to text where you are?
Has anyone actually ever received a citation for this?
Will this law keep you from doing it?
Be honest. This isn’t church, but I am a pastor. 
103 Responses to “Put The Phone Down”