Ohio House panel OKs ban on texting while driving

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) - A bill that would ban texting for drivers in Ohio has cleared a state legislative panel.

The Dayton Daily News reports an Ohio House committee unanimously approved the legislation Wednesday.

Under the bill, a violation for texting would be a minor misdemeanor -- punishable by a fine of up to $150. The measure would allow for a motorist to be stopped for texting alone. It also sets up a six-month grace period during which only warnings could be issued.

If it becomes law, Ohio would join 30 states and the District of Columbia in banning texting for all drivers.

House Speaker William Batchelder tells the newspaper he would give the bill consideration.