fedeliSafe texting zones could be appearing on the Kings Highway in the near future as Nipissing MPP Vic Fedeli has tabled a bill for First Reading at Queens Park.

The bill would authorize the Minister of Transportation to designate texting zones as an area where a driver is able to park or stop safely and use a hand-held wireless communication device. Fedeli says it would authorize the government to designate a commuter parking lot, transit station or rest area as a texting zone and require signs to be displayed at or approaching it.

He adds this sends a clear message to drivers that there is no longer an excuse to endanger themselves and those they share the road with.

Timmins-James Bay MPP Gilles Bisson is confused by the bill, saying most just pull over to the side of the road to send a text message anyway.  He did say the idea is something that can be phased in as highways are either reconstructed or built from scratch.

(With files from sister station Country 600 CKAT in North Bay)