One thing you can count on from government - an over-reaction. And this usually leads to more, unnecessary regulation, legislation, bureaucracy, and expense.
Now the target is texting while driving.
OK, it's a dangerous practice - but so is drinking coffee, turning around to talk to the kids in the back seat, looking to the person in the passenger seat as we are having a conversation, changing the channel on the radio, adjusting the heat or air conditioning, changing the CD, eating a sandwich, looking for change for the toll booth, shaving, putting on makeup, trying to swat a bee that flew into the car, singing along to our favorite song, talking on the cell phone, looking for directions, thinking about our next appointment, or similar activites that take our total focus off of our driving.
Now the White House wants to convene a commission to study what laws can be enacted to address the issue of texting.
First, it's not that simple. Second, it's not a federal issue. Third, you can't legislate for every human eventuality that occurs inside the vehicle.
Give it a rest and just go on recess, Washington.
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The #1 question? When will these politicians decide it's important to find a way to patrol themselves? I can't believe there are any citizens left who can't see through these phonies!
Jon,
It really does try the imagination - and the patience - but there are a lot of kool-aid drinkers out there. :)
Steve
OK, so some states allow people to ride motorcycles without helmets but want to ban texting while driving? How about getting back to individual responsibility and freedom of choice.
Better yet Sam, how about getting rid of obama in 2012,, if there is anything left that resembles the US of a year ago?
Sam,
Very well said. Bureaucrats and professional politicians think the answer to everything is more laws. :)
Steve
John,
A Republican majority in 2010 will at least put the brakes on this craziness (I hope). :)
Steve
You would think it would fall on the existing law that prohibits "anything that would interfere with the operation of a vehicle" or something to that effect.
I'm sorry Steve, we can't regulate stupidity.I have witnessed 3 accidents where I saw the people texting prior to rear ending the car in front of them. We are one of the states where it is illegal and no one enforces the law, police text while driving...
Silvia,
Until cars are driven by robots, things are still going to happen. Some people still won't wear seat belts. :)
Steve
Paul,
Texting, looking for somthing that fell on the floor, taking our eyes off the road, :)
Steve, it's already been passed in Tennessee. $50 fine. Woohoo! that should keep them all honest. :)
Connie,
Only when they get caught - like the seat belt violators. :)
Steve
Texting IS distracting, but more than drinking coffee or talking on a cell phone. The latter two, I can do with my eyes still on the road. But I do agree with your point on legislating for every eventuality.
Cheryl,
Government can and should do only so much - and they've already exceeded that. :)
Steve
Crazy laws that should be common sense but are never enforced... Waste of taxpayers money dreaming up these things..
Diane,
That's right. Think we have enough laws now that aren't or can't be enforced. :)
Steve
I agree Steve, there is no need for the Federal govt to get into this issure. That's why we have state and local laws.
I also agree with Caron on the common sense issue. I think we should fine stupid people for not using common sense.
Besides, laws are only for honest people.
Bob,
All valid points. Thanks for speaking up in support. :)
Steve