Richmond, VA - Soon there could be tougher penalties for texting while driving.
A Virginia Senate committee has endorsed legislation to make it a primary offense, meaning police can pull you over just for texting behind the wheel.
Currently it's just a secondary offense and a $20 fine.
The Senate Courts of Justice Committee voted 9 to 6 Monday to approve a bill that would increase the fine to $250 and make it a primary offense.
If a driver is charged with reckless driving as a result of texting, there would be a mandatory minimum $500 fine.