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Published April 06, 2011, 07:05 AM

Bill that fines drivers for texting on its way to Dalrymple

North Dakota needs only Gov. Jack Dalrymple’s signature to outlaw texting while driving. The North Dakota House voted 53-40 on Tuesday to give final approval to the ban.

BISMARCK (AP) — North Dakota needs only Gov. Jack Dalrymple’s signature to outlaw texting while driving.

The North Dakota House voted 53-40 on Tuesday to give final approval to the ban.

The legislation imposes a $100 state fine for people caught texting while driving. If it’s signed by the governor it will take effect Aug. 1.

Earlier versions of the bill included driver’s license penalty points for violators, and a one-year license suspension for a three-time violator. Those penalties have been removed.

Bismarck Rep. Lawrence Klemin said it’s time North Dakota joined the majority of states that ban texting while driving.

The cities of Grand Forks and Bismarck already ban texting while driving. In Bismarck the fine is $50. It is a $15 fine in Grand Forks.

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