March 19, 2024

Iowa seeks app to keep teen drivers from texting

DES MOINES (AP) — The state of Iowa intends to supply a smartphone app for 14- through 17-year-olds that will keep them from texting while driving.

The Des Moines Register says the state Transportation Department is choosing a high-tech firm to develop the app, which is expected to become available early next year. It will be called “TXTL8R,” which in text language is “Text Later.”

The department will pick up the cost of the app for the teen drivers. Older drivers will be able to acquire the app but will be charged by a third-party vendor.

Several text-blocking apps already are commercially available for smartphones. They use a phone’s global positioning system capability to determine movement.

Iowa law forbids all drivers from texting while driving.