Pima Co. supervisors pass ordinance to ban texting while driving

PIMA COUNTY, AZ ( Tucson News Now) - The Pima County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously Tuesday, May 17, to ban texting while driving.

Tucson already has an anti-texting ordinance. Arizona is one of only two states that hasn't required drivers to go hands-free.

Statistics show looking down at a phone even for a couple of seconds could cost drivers their life.

The ordinance restricts the use of all phones or tablets while driving on all roads and highways in Pima County.

There are some exceptions, for police officers and school buses.

Drivers can also use their phones if their vehicle isn't moving.

Many people Tucson News Now spoke with agreed using their phone on the road is dangerous.

"You can't concentrate on the road," Craig Pellingra said.

Eugene Benevenia said he's been guilty of texting and driving himself.

"I know it's wrong and we still do it and I know I've been fortunate," Benevenia said.

If caught, drivers will face a $100 fine for texting and driving.