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A legislative ban on texting while driving is back in front of state lawmakers this year. The ban was killed late in session last year by House leadership. Some studies claim texting while driving is 20 times more dangerous than drinking and driving. There is overwhelming support for a ban in the Florida House and Senate, but Representative Jimmy Patronis is standing his ground against the ban. Patronis says government is getting too big and there’s already technology that keeps people from the dangerous practice.

“I don’t like red light cameras. I don’t like primary enforcement on seatbelts and I get into a dilemma where I want to ensure public safety. Do I think everyone should have insurance while driving on the road? Absolutely. It gets to a point where I think law enforcement has got the tools for the job and you know what? If law enforcement is crying for this, then they’ll let us know,” said Patronis.

Patronis says police officers can already stop drivers who text for reckless driving. He also says new Apps for the I-Phone and Blackberry that keep people from texting while in a moving vehicle can also help curb the problem.