A far-reaching distracted driving ordinance proposed in Villa Rica has sparked debate. The bill would not only ban the use of cell phones while driving, it would also bar everything from eating to putting on makeup.
Back in May, Villa Rica Mayor Jay Collins vetoed an ordinance that would have banned cell phones while driving. The new bill goes much further, including "such action can include but is not limited to: eating, reading, writing, performing personal hygiene/grooming, physical interaction with pets, passengers or unsecured cargo."
One of the big concerns with the original hands-free ordinance was enforcement on Interstate 20, as many cars pass through from other areas of the state. The new ordinance would be enforced in all parts of Villa Rica except Interstate 20.
Residents that FOX 5 talked to had a mixed response to the proposal.
"The cell phone law, I could see that. Too many people on cell phones distracted, that sort of thing. But the broad thing, I just don't see it. I eat in the car myself," said Steve Klug.
"I think it's a great idea. I know maybe some of the young drivers will be like, ‘Oh that's so dumb,' but I think it's for everybody to be safe," said one driver.
The ordinance would allow hands-free devices and exempt law enforcement and emergency personal.
There is already a state distracted driver law, but it's typically not enforced unless there's been an accident.
The council is expected to take up a measure that would ban just about all forms of distracted driving on Tuesday.
Thursday, May 23 2013 7:32 AM EDT2013-05-23 11:32:32 GMT
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