Texas House bill could increase fines for drivers using their phones

AUSTIN (KXAN) — Texas State Representative Charles Cunningham, R-Humble, filed a bill Friday that would, if passed, increase fines for drivers who use their devices while driving.

Currently, using a "portable wireless communication device" is a misdemeanor offense, punished by a fine of $25 to $99 for a first-time offender. Repeat offenders face fines of $100 to $200.

Under House Bill 1357, those fines would rise to $100 to $200 for a first offense and $200 to $300 after that.