LITTLE ROCK, AR — A bill being pushed by some state lawmakers would ban the use of hand held cell phones while driving. Law enforcement says the bill would make the streets safer but some worry that it goes too far.
HB1373 would ban the use of handheld mobile devices while operating a vehicle and make it a primary offense allowing officers to stop drivers when they see it.
“I’m for making it an offense,” said one driver. “I think it’s a great idea,” said another.
The head of the state police chief’s association spoke in support and state police say the bill would make roads safer.
But during a hearing Tuesday lawmakers expressed concern — worried that the bill goes too far and would stop people from using things like the maps many of us have become so accustomed to.
The bill failed to pass a house committee after a close vote.
Supporters are promising to go back to the drawing board to make some changes trying to win over some of those skeptical lawmakers.
HB1373 would ban the use of handheld mobile devices while operating a vehicle and make it a primary offense allowing officers to stop drivers when they see it.
“I’m for making it an offense,” said one driver. “I think it’s a great idea,” said another.
The head of the state police chief’s association spoke in support and state police say the bill would make roads safer.
But during a hearing Tuesday lawmakers expressed concern — worried that the bill goes too far and would stop people from using things like the maps many of us have become so accustomed to.
The bill failed to pass a house committee after a close vote.
Supporters are promising to go back to the drawing board to make some changes trying to win over some of those skeptical lawmakers.