The day has come. The Honolulu City Council, by a margin of 6 to 1, has passed a ban on using mobile electronic devices while driving. Personally, I'm split down the middle.
I applaud the ban, because how many times has my blood pressure risen because of some other idiot, slowing down the single lane of traffic behind them, because they can't drive at the speed limit and talk at the same time? I wonder, do they talk slower while they're driving, too?
I resent the ban, because I need to use the phone for my business! I can't pull off the road just to answer a call! Oh yeah, the ban exempts users with handsfree devices, like my cherished Bluetooth! Whew! Nevermind!
The bill also allows for other exemptions:
c) The following persons shall be exempt from the provisions of subsection (a):
- Emergency responders using a mobile electronic device while in the performance and scope of their official duties:
- Drivers using two-way radios while in the performance and scope of their work-related duties:
- Drivers holding a valid amateur radio operator license issued by the federal communications commission and using a half-duplex two-way radio.
All in all, the bill looks like a straight forward and well written piece of legislation. The problem will be in the area of enforcement. The Mayor has stated his intention to sign it, after he reviews it further and consults with the Police Department and the Prosecutor's Office regarding any issues they may have regarding enforcment of it's provisions.
The bill will become law on July 1, 2009 after the Mayor signs it. Hawaii will join California and New York with such bans. First time offenders will face fines of between $40.00 to $100.00.
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