MADISON, Wis., May 5 (UPI) -- Wisconsin Gov. Jim Doyle Wednesday signed into law legislation banning texting or e-mailing while driving, becoming the 25th U.S. state to do so.
The anti-texting and e-mailing law goes into effect Dec. 1, Green Bay's WTAQ-TV reported.
U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood lauded Wisconsin's action.
"Distracted driving is an epidemic that kills thousands and injures hundreds of thousands more each year," LaHood said in a release. "So we're thrilled to reach the halfway mark toward laws in every state against this dangerous practice.
"Everyone on Wisconsin's roads will be safer because this law is on the books."
WTAQ said the Wisconsin law will slap first-time violators with fines ranging from $20 to $400, along with four points on their driving records. The penalty goes up to $200 to $800 for second-time offenders.
Police can stop any motorist suspected of violating the law.
