A law banning texting while driving in Arizona is closer to becoming a reality. The Senate Committee on Transportation and Technology approved SB1261 yesterday. If passed, it would create a fine of no more than 99-dollars for a first offense and 200-dollars for repeat violations. Supporters have agreed to some compromises to try to get the bill into law. Citations can only be issued if the texting is witnessed by a police officer or other established evidence. Motorists would not have to give a phone to an officer who wants to determine if that person was texting. The bill makes clear that a conviction for driving-while-texting could not be used by the Motor Vehicle Division to take away someone’s license, or for an insurance company to raise a motorist’s premiums. The measure now goes to the full Senate. It could face a tougher time in the House, where lawmakers traditionally take a harder stand against government regulation of personal choice.