Still waiting for Senate to act on texting ban

It’s too quiet in the Texas Senate, which is winding down its regular session along with the House of Representatives.

House members have approved an important piece of legislation. We’re still waiting on senator to follow suit.

At issue is a statewide ban on texting while driving a motor vehicle. The House did the right thing. One House member told me one day recently that the Senate — quite possibly — might let the issue wither and die.

The bill needs to become law. I have heard precious little from the Senate on this idea. Let’s get busy, senators.

My wife and I drive occasionally from Amarillo to the Metroplex — and back. Neither of us likes to send to text messages in the first place. But some communities have ordinances banning the activity while operating a motor vehicle; others do not.

Motorists need so know the activity is against the law all over the state, not just in some communities.

The 2011 Legislature passed a bill and sent it to Gov. Rick Perry’s desk. The governor vetoed it, calling it too intrusive. The 2013 Legislature didn’t bother to send a bill to the governor.

This is not a revolutionary concept. Texas is one of just six states that haven’t enacted this law. It’s time to join the crowd.

I’m waiting patiently for the Texas Senate do the right thing.

My patience, though, does have its limits.

The clock is ticking, ladies and gentlemen.