The New York State Senate has approved a ban on texting while driving.

Drivers guilty of using an electronic device to text, access the Internet or play video games can be fined up to $150 under the new legislation.

The Assembly had previously passed the bill, which now goes to Gov. David Paterson for his signature.

It is already illegal to use a cellphone while driving in New York.

The bill also raises the requirements for obtaining a driver's license. Young drivers must have a learner's permit for at least six months under the new law, and must complete 50 hours of supervised driving before applying for a regular license.