Let’s see…MLK day,Time Zone thing now this…
For the second year in a row, the Arizona Senate shot down an attempt to ban texting while driving amid concerns about imposing too much government regulation.
The measure failed Tuesday on an 11-11 preliminary vote. It would have prohibited writing, reading or sending text messages and e-mails while driving on a state highway. It would not have prohibited talking on the phone while driving and would have allowed drivers to type a name or telephone number to make a call.
Opponents of the measure acknowledged that texting while driving is dangerous. But they said they don’t like the idea of creating new government restrictions.
Sen. Ron Gould, R-Lake Havasu City, said it’s equally as dangerous for someone to fish around for the last ice cube at the bottom of a cup of soda, but “we don’t have special legislation to outlaw Big Gulps.”
Opponents called the bill “nanny state legislation” that tries to regulate how people live their lives. They said officers already can cite motorists for reckless driving if they’re caught texting.
Sen. Sylvia Allen, R-Snowflake, said Arizonans know it’s dangerous to text while driving and should be trusted to make the right decision.
Supporters said the bill is about saving lives. They said parents would be able to tell their children that texting while driving is illegal.
