Bills to limit cellphone use growing
Bills to limit cellphone use growing
WASHINGTON, March 30 (UPI) — Lawmakers in 42 states — more than double a year ago — are considering bills to restrict or ban the use of cell phones while driving, says a research group.
In all, more than 250 bills regarding cell-phone use while driving are before the lawmakers despite disagreement over the risks posed by cell-phone use, said the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, a research group funded by insurers.
Georgia, Idaho, North Carolina and Texas are considering banning all cell-phone use behind the wheel, including hands-free devices, while legislators in other states propose allowing only hands-free phoning, USA Today reported Monday.
The bills are being carefully watched by wireless carriers and automakers, which have invested millions of dollars in hands-free technology built into cars and trucks, USA Today reported.
At least one insurer, Nationwide, soon will offer discounts to parents who buy technology that disables their teenagers’ cell phones while cars are in motion.
