Pa. State Police have issued just 73 tickets for texting while driving

    Pennsylvania’s statewide ban on texting while driving took effect in March — but if you were worried about getting a ticket, you probably shouldn’t be.

    As of earlier this month, Pennsylvania State Police have issued a mere 73 citations throughout the state for texting while driving. The average age of the offending drivers was 25.

    Meanwhile, the Philadelphia Police Department has issued 153 tickets.

    The sponsor of the ban in the Pennsylvania Assembly, Representative Eugene DePasquale says he’s not beaten yet.

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    “The goal is to change the behavior, not just to give out tickets,” says DePasquale.

    DePasquale, D-York, says at least some police departments are giving drivers warnings for their first offense. The fine established by the law is $50.

    The Legislature should pass a total ban on handheld devices in the car, he said.

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