Will Iowa ban texting while driving?

JOHNSTON – Gov. Chet Culver said Friday he would support legislative efforts to discourage distracted driving, such as text-messaging while operating a moving vehicle.

Speaking during and after Iowa Public Television's “Iowa Press” show, Culver said he would sign legislation that imposed a ban on texting while driving, but he noted it is not a front-burner issue as state elected leaders work to create jobs and foster economic recovery.

“I would support the concept of doing more to discourage distracted driving and increase public safety,” the governor told reporters after the IPT taping. “I think it's likely there will be … enough consensus to get a bill done this session.”

Top lawmakers have indicated they expect to craft targeted language that will address situations where drivers use cell phones or other devices while driving to send and receive electronic messages – a growing practice that safety officials say is contributing to dangerous or deadly situations on Iowa roadways.

“Anything we can do that's reasonable and makes sense in terms of increasing public safety is a good idea,” Culver said. While some states have banned cell phone use in moving vehicles, the governor said he was not interested in going that far.

On another topic, Culver acknowledged that incumbents are vulnerable heading into the 2010 election cycle, but he said he currently is focused on governing and making tough decisions that will get the state through difficult economic times and not worrying about his re-election prospects.

“I'm not worried about November, I'm worried about January 2010,” he said.

“I'm focused on governing and getting things done and I feel good about where Iowa is right now,” the governor added.

“The fact of the matter is that no incumbent in America right now for any office is probably very well liked. We saw that with the city elections across the state in November,” Culver added. “But this is not a popularity contest. This is about making tough decisions, making good decisions under very difficult circumstances.”