N.J. panel to consider tougher driver cellphone laws

    For the second time this week, New Jersey lawmakers will consider toughening the penalties for talking and texting while driving.

    An Assembly panel on Thursday is set to consider two measures.
    One would make it easier to convict people of vehicular homicide or assault by auto when they kill or injure someone while talking or texting.

    The panel will also discuss increasing fines from $100 for a first offense to $200. A second offense would be $400 and a third offense would be $600.

    The measures would allow courts to impose a 90-day driver’s license suspension for third or subsequent violations. Those offenders would also receive three points against their driving record.

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    A Senate panel voted 5-0 for similar increased penalties on Monday.

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