By MIKE GLOVERAssociated Press Writer
1:31 p.m. CDT, June 30, 2010

DES MOINES, Iowa —
Gov. Chet Culver and top transportation officials announced a yearlong education campaign Wednesday to warn drivers of a new law banning texting on the highway and requiring young drivers to buckle up.

The officials gathered on the steps of the Statehouse to mark a new law going into force on Thursday that bans drivers from sending text messages while on the highway and bars drivers under 18 from using cell phones at all.

"Distracted driving means dangerous driving," said Nancy Richardson, director of the Iowa Department of Transportation.

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A companion law requires back-seat passengers under 18 to wear seat belts.

While the texting ban goes on the books Thursday, police will issue only warning tickets for the first year and officials plan to use that year to focus on educating drivers.

"This new law is not about writing tickets, it is about saving lives," said Department of Public Safety Director Gene Meyer. "While law enforcement will enforce the new law, the focus is on changing