With the stroke of Governor Carcieri's pen, it is now illegal to text-message while driving in Rhode Island.

Sending, reading or writing a text message, such as an e-mail or instant message, with any kind of data-transmission device while operating a moving motor vehicle would be punishable at the Traffic Tribunal by a fine of $85 on first offense, $100 on second offense and $125 for a third or subsequent offense.

The new law takes effect immediately.

Rhode Island is now the 19th state plus the District of Columbia to prohibit the activity, as concern grows across the nation about the issue of distracted driving. Nine of those states prohibit texting only by novice drivers or in limited circumstances. Six states and D.C. go even further, by prohibiting the use of handheld cell phones while driving. Rhode Island has not yet crossed that bridge.

Read More.