Texting-while-driving ban takes effect in Columbus

COLUMBUS (AP) — A law now in effect makes Ohio’s largest city the latest where police are watching for motorists texting behind the wheel.

Beginning today, drivers in Columbus can be fined $150 for writing or reading text messages or using the Internet while operating a vehicle. The new ban applies even if a motorist is waiting at a red light or stopped in traffic.

Columbus joins other Ohio communities, including Cleveland and Toledo, that also have outlawed texting while driving. A proposed statewide ban is now before Ohio lawmakers.