OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) - A bill to outlaw texting while driving has been approved by a House committee.

The House Transportation Committee on Tuesday approved the bill that would make it illegal for anyone to ``compose, send, or read a text based communication while the motor vehicle is in motion.'' If approved by the House Calendar Committee, the bill will next head to the full House for a vote.

The measure by Smithville Democratic Rep. Curtis McDaniel would impose a fine of up to $500 for violations.

The bill specifically exempts texts to emergency responders, medical providers, firefighters and law enforcement.

Although a texting ban currently is in place for teen drivers, it does not apply to all motorists