National group says Ohio’s texting ban doesn’t go far enough

COLUMBUS — A national group representing safety officials from all states wants Ohio to take a step beyond its new ban on texting while driving and prohibit drivers from using all hand-held electronic devices.

The new rules make texting behind the wheel a secondary offense for adults. It’s a primary offense for those 18 and under, so they can be more easily ticketed.

The Columbus Dispatch reports the Washington, D.C.-based Governors Highway Safety Association says Ohio’s new ban doesn’t do enough.

But a spokesman for Gov. John Kasich says a cellphone ban for drivers isn’t among the Republican’s priorities.

Ohio was the 39th state to ban texting while driving. Nine states ban drivers from using hand-held devices, and a similar ban takes effect next year in West Virginia.