Parkinson Signs Kansas Texting Ban

Kansas Gov. Mark Parkinson has signed a bill into law that will ban texting while driving on state roads.

The law was one of six measures the Democratic governor signed Monday, bringing the total to 155 sent to him from the 2010 legislative session. The texting ban takes effect when it’s published in the Kansas Register.

Through Jan. 11, 2011, law enforcement will only issue a warning to drivers who are stopped for texting while operating a vehicle. The fine will then be $60 after that date.

Exclusions to the law include text messages sent to report illegal activity to law enforcement or to receive emergency traffic or weather alerts.