MADISON, Wis. (WTAQ) – The Wisconsin Senate could take a final vote Tuesday on banning text messaging while driving. The Senate approved a ban last fall, but the Assembly voted in January to adopt higher fines for texting behind the wheel – and senators are now being asked to go along with them.

The Assembly bill would create fines of $100 to $400 for a first offense, and up to $800 for second or subsequent offenses within a year. The Assembly bill also bans e-mailing behind the wheel – but unlike the earlier Senate ban, it does allow drivers to text if they’re parked or pulled over.

Last month, the Senate Transportation Committee deadlocked on the Assembly measure. But the panel’s chairman let the bill advance to the Senate floor anyway. Lawmakers only have 10 days to pass dozens of bill that are still pending. Those which don’t pass are dead at least until next year. >> WHBL