The California Senate has passed a bill that would fine drivers for distracted driving.
The bill, SB1800, introduced by Sen. Kevin Murray, D-Los Angeles, would fine drivers $35 for the first offense, with a far larger $150 fine for the second offense.
The bill lists nine examples of distracted driving:
The bill says the penalty can even be applied when a cell phone user is operating a hands-free device, if it is distracting the driver.
So far, there is no organized opposition to the bill, but a number of state agencies and private organizations have announced their support, The Sacramento Bee reported. SB1800 passed the Senate by a vote of 22-14. It now heads to the Assembly.