Perry vetoes no-texting-driving bill

AUSTIN (KXAN) - Gov. Rick Perry on Friday vetoed about two dozen pieces of legislation passed by lawmakers during the regular session, including a measure that would have prohibited texting while driving.

In his veto message, Perry said he supports the concept, but that House Bill 242 goes too far.

"Texting while driving is reckless and irresponsible," the veto message says. "I support measures that make our roads safer for everyone, but House Bill 242 is a government effort to micromanage the behavior of adults. Current law already prohibits drivers under the age of 18 from texting or using a cell phone while driving. I believe there is a distinction between the overreach of House Bill 242 and the government's legitimate role in establishing laws for teenage drivers who are more easily distracted and laws providing further protection to children in school zones."

The announcement came on the day Perry acted on all legislation that was sent to his desk for his signature.