“This is the right thing to do,” Crider said. “I can’t
think of a single phone call that is important
enough for anybody to take the chance on
taking a life.”
Distracted driving was to blame in at least 860
injury crashes and 48 crashes with deaths across
Indiana last year, according to state police.
Republican Sen. Jean Leising of Oldenburg
argued the tougher law would unfairly effect
those who drive older vehicles without hands-
free technology and that the maximum
potential $500 fine was excessive.
“We have so much government, folks,” she said.
“This is another layer.”
The House must still give final approval to
the bill before it goes to Republican Gov. Eric
Holcomb, who has endorsed it.