(Indianapolis, Ind.) - A texting while driving ban passed an Indiana Senate committee Tuesday.

The bill which originated in the House of Representatives now heads to the full Senate, perhaps its last real test, after it earned 7-2 approval from the Senate Corrections Committee.

If the Senate passes the bill, the legislation will head to conference committee where legislators from each chamber would work to send a finalized proposal to Governor Mitch Daniels' desk for signature into law.

House Bill 1129 would expand restrictions on typing or reading text messages at the wheel to all Indiana drivers, not just drivers under the age of 18 covered by the state’s current texting law.  Violators could face a fine up to $500.

Drivers would be allowed to use hands-free headsets and other technology which allows them to keep two hands on the wheel and eyes on the road.

If the bill becomes law, it would make Indiana the 31st state to enact a texting and driving ban.

LINKS:

Texting While Driving Bill Passes House

Proposal Would Ban Texting While Driving For All

Texting While Driving Not “Fine” In Ky.