LEGISLATING STUFF THAT DRIVERS DO - Using Cell Phones Could Become Illegal

(03/05/2008)
By Bob Weaver

It's difficult to legislate against behavior inside of moving vehicles, like eating fast food, drinking soda, smoking, using headphone music players, adjusting radio and CD players, playing game boys, putting on make-up, in addition to talking and gawking.

Such behaviors are the most frequent causes for auto accidents.

The West Virginia Legislature is moving on a bill that legislates against the use of a cell phone while driving.

The initial bill exempted state employees, allowing them to talk on a cell phone while vehicle is moving.

Cabell County Senator Evan Jenkins says government officials shouldn't be exempted, and the exemption has apparently been removed from the bill.

The measure, if it passes, makes it a secondary traffic offense.

The bill continues to exempt police officers and other first responders.

The bill now goes to the House Judiciary Committee for further consideration, with the closing of this year's session this weekend.