Sioux Falls bans texting while driving

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) -- Texting while driving has now officially become illegal in Sioux Falls.

The ban passed by the Sioux Falls City Council last month took effect Friday. People can still use their cell phones to talk, but the ordinance prohibits composing, sending and reading electronic messages or accessing websites while driving.

South Dakota is one of only 11 states without a statewide ban on texting. Sioux Falls became the first city in South Dakota to ban texting, but other cities are considering imposing their own bans.

Sioux Falls Police Chief Doug Barthel tells the Argus Leader he hopes people voluntarily comply with the ban so officers do not have write tickets for $95. He says officers will write tickets if they see drivers texting and driving erratically.