Howard Fischer/Capitol Media Services

Toni Townsend, whose son, Clayton, was killed by a texting motorist, discusses how a newly signed Arizona ban on texting while driving will be her son's legacy.

Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey has signed legislation aimed at reducing distracted driving and using hand-held devices while behind the wheel.

Speaking to members of the press, Ducey thanked the families of victims like Salt River tribal Officer Clayton Townsend who was killed in January by a distracted driver.

Townsend’s mother Toni said her fallen son would have appreciated lawmakers’ efforts.

"If one person, or hundreds we hope, can be saved and no family can have to go through this tragedy then he would be overjoyed.”

At least one major telecommunications provider in Arizona has also applauded the measure.

Some legal experts, though, question the practical impact of the legislation. They wonder about the limits, questioning whether smart watches, for instance, could qualify as an offense.