Scott has 'significant concerns' about texting and driving bill

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – During a stop in Jacksonville on Monday, Gov. Rick Scott said he's reviewing a bill to ban texting while driving that's awaiting his signature but has "absolutely significant concerns about it."

Earlier this month, the Florida Senate accepted a House-amended version to approve the ban.

Supporters concede it's not the ideal bill they want, but they call it a "first step" in a path filled with roadblocks.

The penalty would be $30 for a first-time texting offense, a non-moving violation.

A driver would pay a $60 fine and be assessed three points if caught texting while driving again within five years, with more points added if the violation is in a school zone or another serious offense.

Texting would be allowed in hands-off, high-tech cars and when a car is stopped at a red light or in a traffic jam.

Currently, Florida is one of five states without any texting ban. Thirty-nine states prohibit texting while driving, and six have partial bans.

If Scott signs the bill, it will go into effect Oct. 1.