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RELEASE: Rep. Franke Distracted Driving Legislation Passes House

Wednesday, May 2, 2018

SAINT PAUL, MN – On Tuesday, the Minnesota House of Representatives passed their proposal related to public safety, HF2856, on a bipartisan vote of 92-35. Contained in the legislation was a bill authored by Rep. Keith Franke, R-St. Paul Park, to increase penalties for those who kill or harm others while they’re driving and distracted by their cell phone.

“We’re seeing technology grow faster than the law, and I think it’s time for the law to catch up,” said Franke. “The punishment is much more severe if the driver is under the influence of alcohol, and I think texting and driving should carry a comparable punishment if the driver kills or hurts an innocent victim. I’m happy to see bipartisan support for our public safety proposal, and for my legislation to decrease distracted driving deaths move one step closer to becoming law.”

Now passed by the House, HF2856 goes to the Senate.

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