President Obama has banned texting while driving for all government employees.  The ban stops government employees from texting while driving a govenment vehicle or while driving their own vehicles but on government sponsored business.  The government is also encouraging federal contractors for imposing the same ban on their employees.

Distracted drivers account for 16% off all traffic accidents, up from 12% in 2007 and the Transportation Department is seeking to ban texting by all interstate truck and bus operators.  Senator Schumer from NY has introduced a bill that would withhold 25% of highway funding for states that do not ban texting while driving.  The issue has gain prominence in the past few months and the number of violent and disturbing accidents has increased.  A recent British Public Service Announcement showed a graphic accident and the death and destruction associated with it.  The PSA was so graphic it had limited exposure on British TV but has made its way around the internet.

The executive order was signed this past Tuesday night and goes into effect immediately.