"If it's killing more people and it's more dangerous than driving while intoxicated then I think I think it's pretty easy as to why we've got to get it done," said Rep. Tom Craddick.
Today was the first day state lawmakers could introduce bills for the upcoming legislative session, and Representative Tom Craddick didn't waste anytime in filing his bill to ban texting while driving.
"Twenty-five cities in the state of Texas have passed it and they all have varying degrees of the law," said Craddick. "So if we passed one central law in Texas we would all have the same standards. I think the safety out there is horrendous."
Lawmakers passed a similar statewide ban two years ago, but Gov. Rick Perry vetoed the bill because he considered it government overreach.
But Rep. Craddick said there is a distinction between overstepping boundaries and the government's legitimate role in protecting the community.
"I think there is a true need for safety out there," Craddick said.
The Brown family realizes that need for safety more than anyone.
You may remember three years ago, the Browns lost their daughter, Alex, to a texting and driving car wreck in Wellman, Texas.
Now they've made it their mission to educate and save lives while travelling the country to share Alex's story
"The Brown family has been diligent about taking the car that their daughter was killed in and going across the state talking to groups, talking to people, pushing for the law, and trying to see a difference so more young people won't get killed," said Craddick. "And I'm more than glad to support their push."
If the bill passes you would still be able to dial a number, use your GPS and use voice operated technology.
