What's Tampa Bay Saying?

Should Texting While Driving Be Banned in Florida?

Are you in favor of such a law? Do you think it goes too far, or not far enough?

Florida could soon join 39 other states that have banned texting while driving. A bill filed last week by state Rep. Doug Holder, R-Sarasota, would make texting while driving a secondary offense under which a driver can receive a citation, but only after he or she is pulled over for a primary offense such as speeding or reckless driving, TBO.com reports. The bill doesn't prohibit all use of handheld devices while driving, as some state laws do, and cell phone calls would still be permitted. "If you are texting while driving, you are 23 times more likely to have an accident," Holder told TBO. "I think the timing is right. I think we are going to get something passed." Are you in favor of such a law in Florida? Do you think it goes too far, …

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Gov. Scott Declares State of Emergency For Florida

A Level 1 state of emergency, the lowest declaration, is in effect as Tropical Storm Debby brings rain, winds and flooding to Florida.

Florida Gov. Rick Scott declared a state of emergency Monday afternoon as the state deals with the effects of Tropical Storm Debby. Scott declared a Level 1 state of emergency, the lowest, which activates storm operations in all 67 counties, the Tampa Bay Times reports. Scott receieved a briefing on the storm's effects before advising Floridians "to be safe, avoid non-essential driving, pay close attention to weather reports and stay away from downed power lines," according to the Times. "I think the most important thing is, one, just use common sense. Be careful," Scott said. "If you're close to a beach, be very cautious. Look at all the beach advisories. If there's any standing water, if there's any flooding, don't drive into it. Be very…

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