Wisconsin News and Sports
Wisconsin’s new ban on texting while driving is a prime example of “feel good legislation” that really doesn’t do anything. That’s the feeling of Jim Baxter, President of the National Motorists Association, based in Waunakee.
Baxter says there have been penalties for inattentive driving in the state for a very long time, which already allow police to pull someone over for not keeping control of a vehicle. [Read more…]
Oregon HS student Tiffany Root. PHOTO: Andrew Beckett
Sending a text message or e-mail while the wheel of a vehicle could end up earning you a ticket, as a statewide ban on texting and driving takes effect today in Wisconsin.
The ban is intended to put a stop to a major distraction for many drivers. Pam Moen of AAA-Wisconsin says research has shown that people who text and drive are just as impaired as drivers with alcohol in their system. [Read more…]
The state Senate has passed a ban on texting while driving – again. Debate seemed familiar, since the Senate passed a texting ban back in October. State Senator Jeff Plale of South Milwaukee still opposes it. “It’s feel good nonsense,” the Democrat said, adding that the measure will “no practical implication in the real world of drivers.” [Read more…]
A state Senate Committee this week deadlocked on a bill to ban texting while driving, but the issue could still advance to the Senate floor. De Pere Republican, Senator Alan Lasee hopes so. “It’s a dangerous, dangerous practice,” says Lasee. “People have died.” Lasee is the author of a bill to prohibit the practice. The state Senate Transportation Committee deadlocked on a tie vote this week on a texting ban approved by the Assembly earlier this year. But panel Chairman, Senator Jim Holperin, will let the bill advance, anyway.
John Colbert, WIBA
A statewide ban on texting while driving seems to be on the fast-track at the Capitol.
It passed the Senate by an overwhelming margin earlier this week. Now, the Assembly author Peter Barca (D-Kenosha) expects quick action in his house. The state Representative from Kenosha says he’s optimistic the bill will pass quickly this fall.
Barca says there’s widespread bipartisan support for the texting while driving ban, which is similar to laws passed in 19 other states.
Barca says there’s just no way to punch keys on a cell phone when behind the wheel, without putting yourself and others at risk.