By The Associated Press

Topeka — A bill to ban texting while driving advanced to final action Friday in the Kansas Senate after an often emotional debate.

The bill would make it a traffic infraction on the first offense, subject to a $100 fine.

Supporters say the ban would improve traffic safety, especially among younger drivers who become distracted while communicating behind the wheel.

However, Sen. Chris Steineger, a Kansas City Democrat, calls the bill “dumb” and says it was introduced only because it was a popular topic.

Sen. Jay Emler, a Lindsborg Republican, who sponsored the bill, said he didn’t do it to be popular but because of his experience as an emergency medical specialist.