A bill has been introduced which would update Wisconsin’s texting while driving law to include banning browsing the internet on a smartphone while driving.

Authored by Senator Van Wanggaard (R-Racine) and Representatives Ron Tusler (R-Harrison) and Shannon Zimmerman (R-River Falls), the bill would expand the distracted driving statute to include entering, transmitting, or accessing data while driving. It would also increase the minimum penalty for data-distracted driving to $100, and would clarify that a death caused by data-distracted driving constitutes homicide by negligent use of a vehicle.

“Data-distracted driving goes far beyond just mere texting, and it can be just as dangerous as drunk driving,” said Wanggaard. “You see it on the roads all the time, people texting, tweeting, using Facebook, or reading email. It’s dangerous and has got to stop.”

Tusler added: “This bill expands the scope of distracted driving beyond the current texting and emailing prohibition to include Facebook posting, tweeting, and snapchatting. By doing so, it will make roads safer and adapt to future technologies that may distract drivers.”

Under the bill, the specific references under the inattentive driving statutes related to text messages and email would be replaced by a broader definition of transmitting or accessing data while using an interactive electronic device. Penalties would be increased from a minimum $20 fine, to a minimum $100 fine.

The bill would not prohibit drivers from talking into a phone or using a phone for navigation.

“This bill today is a significant step in the proper direction of raising awareness and increasing the punishment for those who recklesly let themselves shift their attention from safely operating a motor vehicle,” said Zimmerman. “Let’s continue to raise awareness and support fewer accidents and the saving of more Wisconsin lives.”

Ben Wagner, the president of Wisconsin Association for Justice joined the legislators in unveiling the bill.

The legislators hope the bill will become law by the end of the year.