Mass. Texting While Driving Ban Goes Into Effect

Since midnight it's been illegal to send and read text messages while driving in Massachusetts.

State officials say they know enforcement of the new law may not be easy, but they hope just having it on the books increases awareness of the dangers of distracted driving.

"It's imperative that we crack down on distracted driving, whether it is visual, manual or cognitive," says Massachusetts Public Safety Secretary Mary Beth Heffernan.

"Texting does require all three of these senses, and this makes for the most alarming form of distraction."

Under the new law, drivers caught texting are subject to a $100 fine for the first offense.

But some say the ban is too difficult to enforce. On Thursday, WBUR's Bob Oakes spoke with the director of the Massachusetts Chiefs of Police Association, who outlines his biggest concerns.