Governor Andrew Cuomo has announced that strict, new laws regarding texting while driving are going into effect today. The laws are targeted at new and inexperienced drivers. The penalties include a 120 day license suspension for the first offense and a year long license revocation after another offense committed within 6 months of the re-issuance of the license. Cuomo states that driving habits are formed early, and this effort is an attempt to steer new drivers toward safe on-road habits.
"There have been far too many avoidable tragedies due to texting while driving, and with these new penalties, we are seeking to change the behavior of young drivers now and make New York's roadways safer for all," said Cuomo.
These penalties were passed as part of the 2014-2015 budget.
