Texting while driving within Parkland limits could soon leave you with $100 less.
Parkland officials are getting ready to introduce an ordinance that bans texting while driving within the city. The ordinance passed on first reading recently and will become law after it comes up for discussion again in the next few weeks.
There is a state law that limits the ability of municipalities to regulate the use of commercial mobile radio services and other electronic communications devices while driving, but city officials and staff are hopeful the city will be able to enforce the ban on texting.
The inspiration for the proposed law is TTYL, Inc., a group of Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School sophomores. Commissioner Jared Moskowitz brought the idea before the commission after Michael Ross, Max Spiegelman, Joshua Feinzig, Adam Feinzig, Danielle Levy, and Justin Levy met him to discuss their efforts to create awareness about the dangers of texting while driving.
“Back in July, I met with these students,” Moskowitz said. “I believe the issue has merit. Parkland has led on a lot of issues. I believe Parkland should take a lead on this issue… I believe the march has begun.”
“Seventeen states already have banned texting while driving; Miami-Dade has already passed a ban against texting while driving in a school zone. Let us see how they are enforcing the law,” Moskowitz said. “The ordinance calls for a fine of $250 for an offence but I think the fine should be $100. The law won’t be enforced until we get the AG’s opinion.”
Mayor Michael Udine wanted the city to put the students’ presentation on its website. “We want to help you move the ball forward. This is not an issue that will be solved by the city. It’s important that we pass this.”