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Bill of the Day: State Rep. Ford files...

Bill of the Day: State Rep. Ford files “J.T. Williamson Act” to make texting while driving a misdemeanor with $500 fine

By: Frank Corder - January 17, 2022

Y’all Politics brings you a Bill of the Day from the Mississippi Legislature that just may pique your interest.

Many SuperTalk Radio listeners will fondly remember J.T. Williamson for his mid-day banter on everything from politics to the outdoors to barbecuing and grilling. One of the policy items Williamson advocated strongly for on and off air prior to his death was a more robust texting and driving law in Mississippi.

State Rep. Jill Ford (R) has filed HB 429, titled the “J.T. Williamson Act” in memory of the former radio host, that would revise the penalty for texting while driving.

Current Mississippi Code prohibits an operator of a moving motor vehicle from engaging in a call or writing, sending, or reading a text message and from accessing, reading or posting to a social networking site using a hand-held mobile telephone while driving said motor vehicle. The present civil penalty is $100.

Ford’s bill would make those convicted of texting while driving guilty of a misdemeanor and make the offense punishable by a fine of $500.

You can read the full bill here.

About the Author(s)
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Frank Corder

Frank Corder is a native of Pascagoula. For nearly two decades, he has reported and offered analysis on government, public policy, business and matters of faith. Frank’s interviews, articles, and columns have been shared throughout Mississippi as well as in national publications. He is a frequent guest on radio and television, providing insight and commentary on the inner workings of the Magnolia State. Frank has served his community in both elected and appointed public office, hosted his own local radio and television programs, and managed private businesses all while being an engaged husband and father. Email Frank: frank@magnoliatribune.com