Wednesday, November 25, 2009

Good News and bad news

First, the good news, Earlier this month, Pennsylvania's House Transportation Commitee approved legislation (House Bill 2070), to ban cell phone texting while operating a motor vehicle. When this will actually become law, I am uncertain.

This is good news as it has the potential to enhance safety for those of us who might otherwise be unseen by some idiot texting while they drive.

On the other hand, this is also bad news since it means one more law and one more opportunity for the commonwealth to stick their collective noses into the business of private citizens. Unfortunately, I'm convinced that this might be one of the times that legislation is necessary, but that does not mean I have to like it.

On the whole, I will admit that I will feel a little safer once this new regulation goes into effect, but then, I believe it was Ben Franklin who said:

"Those who would give up essential Liberty, to purchase a little temporary Safety, deserve neither Liberty nor Safety."

2 comments:

David said...

it's a shame so many people are so ridiculously asinine as to actually read and send text messages while driving. as if merely talking on the phone wasn't distracting enough.

kz1000st said...

I have to admit that when it's an emergency and I can't stop I use my cell phone while driving. NY has a law against it. Texting, to me, is just plain dumb though. If I can't reach someone by voice I'll leave a message in their voicemail for later. Taking my eyes off the road to write letters is just foolish.