Joining their Senate colleagues, the state house passed a bill that would also outlaw texting, instant messaging, surfing the net and checking e-mail while driving.

The house measure also prohibit texting or talking on a cell phone while driving for 16 and 17 year old teenagers. The bill's sponsor Representative Allen Peake told his colleagues that his bill saves lives.

"I encourage you to not let this opportunity get away from us today, to address one of the most dangerous growing trends in our society. That of texting and driving."

The bill includes fines of up to $100 dollars and 2 points against a license. The Senate bill has higher fines and adds 3 points. Lawmakers will now have to work out the differences.

Tags: Georgia, lawmakers, GPBnews, texting while driving, Allen Peake