Becoming the 25th U. S. state to do so, Wisconsin Gov. Jim Doyle Wednesday signed into law legislation banning texting or e-mailing while driving.

Green Bay's WTAQ-TV has reported that the anti-texting and e-mailing law goes into effect Dec. 1.

U. S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood lauded Wisconsin's action.

LaHood said in a release "Distracted driving is an epidemic that kills thousands and injures hundreds of thousands more each year. So we're thrilled to reach the halfway mark toward laws in every state against this dangerous practice. Everyone on Wisconsin's roads will be safer because this law is on the books."

The Wisconsin law will slap first-time violators with fines ranging from $20 to $400, along with four points on their driving records. The penalty goes up to $200 to $800 for second-time offenders, WTAQ further said.

The law also includes that police can stop any motorist suspected of violating the law. (With Inputs from Agencies)