HB 1360 is going to attract alot of attention Wednesday. HB 1360 prohibiting impeded driving and use of certain electronic devices while driving. The Majority is Ought to Pass with Amendment, the minority wants to Inexpedient to Legislate. This bill, after two committee work sessions, was amended to consolidate three bills submitted about distracted driving and/or cell phone use while driving. This bill as amended prohibits the use of electronic mobile devices while driving. It was amended to incorporate the concerns of stakeholders. The amendment does allow for the use of hands-free electronic devices, devices electronically integrated into the motor vehicle, non cellular 2 way radio, and the use of cellular phones to report an emergency. The amendment also removes the impeded driving violation. Drivers under the age of 18 shall not use a cellular or mobile phone, h ands free or not. They may use a cellular phone to report an emergency. The Minority is convinced that this bill as amended is an example of tremendous outreach by proposing to ban the use of all hand-held mobile devices while driving. This bill was brought toi the committee as an attempt to expand the rarely enforced texting while driving ban, however this overly broad bill goes to far, enabling the nanny state to reach even further into our lives. Distraction while driving is a cause of many accidents, but as in all other areas of life, an individual must choose to behave responsibly. In a state with no mandatory seat belt laws in Connecticut, would be one of the strictest mobile bans in the country. This bill would ban the use of a cell phone or mobile device even while a driver is stopped at a red light or stuck in a traffic jam. It also encourages young drivers to disobey the law because they have no option to use Bluetooth or other hands free technology. It would be impossible to enforce a mobile device ban on everyone who uses a cell phone or GPS device and in the end, this bill is about using the police powers of the state to create a public education campaign. Education about the dangerous habits of distracted driving is important but it is inappropriate to use the police to correct our personal habits. As technology rapidly evolves, hands-free technology will be increasingly adopted and employed making driving safer without legislation.
This bill will result in much discussion and a roll call or division will be called. I know i see people on the phone all the time when they are driving. There were two other bills that were filed in regards to the same issue. These were removed by consent. However, they have been pulled off the consent calendar to be discussed by the House Body.
The Public is invited to come and listen to the House business by sitting in the Gallery or third floor. There is an elevator or steps to the third floor.
The session starts at 10 a.m. with the Speaker calling the House to order followed by a prayer by the House Chaplain, Pledge of Alliegence, singing of the National Anthem, and introduction of special guests in the House Gallery.
There are many other bills to be discussed by the Representatives. Please call the representatives who represent your Ward in Concord if you have questions.
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