Ban on Cell Phones in Vehicles Proposed

House File 9 if passed would ban all people from using a cell phone while driving a vehicle. The bill allows for the obvious exceptions for a person to call 911 or if the vehicle is pulled off to the side of the road.

Most people realize that it is probably not the best practice to talk or send text-messages while driving, but is it that bad that it requires a change in Iowa Law? Capitol Strategies thinks not.

Opening the door to restrict the use of cell phones can quickly become a slippery slope leading to other restrictions and prohibitions in our personal lives. When changes are proposed to the state code intending to alter peoples’ habits, there must be some compelling statistics in its favor. No statistics have been presented indicating that driving with one hand and talking on the phone is more dangerous than talking to the person next to you or in the back seat of the car, for example.

Truck drivers are often on the phone getting instructions on deliveries and best routes making it an essential aspect of their job.

We have spoken to the bill’s sponsor, Representative Abdul-Samad (D-Des Moines) who is open to amending the bill to make an exception for motor trucks. CSG plans to bring a truck tractor up to the Capitol to give Representative Abdul-Samad and other legislators a chance to see firsthand how our drivers operate and how safe they are.