Slow down in school zones, texting ban in effect

The Cameron Police Department would like to remind Cameron residents that school is back in session and school zones are also back in effect. 

CPD Sgt. Anthony Maskunas said that school zones are active from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on weekdays that school is in session. 

He reminds everyone that all traffic laws will be enforced in the school zones during these times and days. Cell phone use in school zones is prohibited and will be enforced. 

“Please be mindful of children walking and riding bicycles to and from school in the mornings and afternoons,” he said.

Several new bills took effect on Sept. 1 including a statewide texting-while-driving ban.

Sgt. D. L. Wilson, Waco Area Texas DPS - Safety Education said the new law on no texting while driving will be in effect beginning Sept. 1.  

“No driving while texting, reading, writing or sending from an electronic device,” he said. “First offense is a fine from $25 - $99 (court cost) and a repeat offender is $100 - $200 (court cost).  If driver causes death or serious bodily injury in a crash they could be charged with a Class A misdemeanor (up to one year in jail) and a fine not to exceed $4,000.”  

Wilson said Texas still has no cell phone or electronic device in school zones and new young driver have restriction of usage with cell phones and electronic devices.  

Here is a link to the new law: http://www.capitol.state.tx.us/tlodocs/85R/billtext/pdf/HB00062F.pdf#nav...