The House is set to consider legislation that would ban the use of handheld wireless telecommunications devices while driving.
It’s now several years in a row the Legislature has considered this type of bill, but Breaux Bridge Representative Mike Huval said we now have ample evidence to support passing it.
“Currently there are 24 states that have laws that prohibit drivers from using handheld devices while driving, so we are not the pioneers here we are about halfway,” said Huval.
Fines would not begin until 2022 and would start at 100 dollars for a first offense.
Stop Distractions.org founder Jennifer Smith said Georgia passed a ban in 2018 and saw immediate results. She said phone tracking data showed major decreases in distracted driving.
“The day the law went into effect drivers were driving and typing on their phones 22% less just because the law was passed,” said Smith.
Proponents also argued these days you can find cheap Bluetooth devices so you can use your phone without taking your hands off the wheel.
The bill was approved by House Transportation unanimously and is scheduled to be heard on the House floor on Monday May 17.
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