Click here to subscribe today or Login.
Some people see it as a huge safety issue, while others see it as an invasion of privacy.
The National Transportation Safety Board recently said use of even hands-free devices is too dangerous to be allowed.
AP PHOTO
YORK. — Pennsylvania’s ban on texting while driving will begin March 8, but some organizations are pushing for a law to make it illegal for motorists to use hand-held cellphones.
Legislators said last week that they aren’t sure the National Transportation Safety Board’s proposal for a bill banning all cellphone use would pass.
Local law enforcement agencies agree that getting rid of driver distractions is good, but some worry about having the manpower to enforce laws already in place.
State Rep. Keith Gillespie, R-Hellam Township, said based on his health-and-safety background, he could support a full ban on cellphone usage. It’s difficult for many people to do two things at the same time, and a tremendous amount of crashes have been attributed to drivers being distracted while talking on a cellphone, he said.
State Rep. Eugene Depasquale, D-West Manchester Township, said the science is clear that texting and cellphone use is distracting.
He thinks the public would support a hand-held ban — which would still allow drivers to use hands-free devices — but not a full ban on cellphones in vehicles.
State Rep. Will Tallman, R-Reading Township, said banning cellphone use in vehicles is “very controversial.”
Two members of the state House recently debated for 30 minutes about what it means to operate a motor vehicle, he said.
Some people see it as a huge safety issue, while others see it as an invasion of privacy.
Banning cellphones raises many questions. Firefighters responding to an emergency sometimes need to call the dispatcher to clarify the information. Would that fall within “emergency use?”
State Rep. Scott Perry, R-Carroll Township, said he did not support the recently passed texting ban.