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Colorado Legislature Advances Bill to Ban Handheld Electronic Devices While Driving

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The state legislature in Colorado is moving forward with a bill that would prohibit the use of handheld electronic devices while operating a vehicle.

Under the proposed legislation, phone calls would still be permitted, but only through hands-free technology like Bluetooth. Checking texts or scrolling through social media, would be considered violations and could result in a ticket.

During the first hearing for Senate Bill 65 on Monday, a series of witnesses shared their stories of accidents they had endured and loved ones they had lost due to the negligence of distracted drivers.

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Sen. Chris Hansen

Sen. Rhonda Fields

Rep. Meg Froelich

Rep. David Ortiz

According to a 2020 survey conducted by the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT), approximately 92 percent of Colorado drivers admitted to driving while distracted. The CDOT also found that in 2019, distracted driving played a role in over 15,000 crashes, resulting in 28 fatalities.

"This bill is deeply personal to me because I have been hit twice as a bike commuter," Sen. Chris Hanson, one of the primary sponsors of the bill told Colorado Public Radio.

While similar bills have failed in previous years, Lawmakers appear confident that advocates have worked diligently to address concerns and garner support. During Monday's hearing, no witnesses testified against the proposal.

Currently, texting while driving is already illegal in Colorado. However, this bill seeks to expand the prohibition to include taking calls or engaging in any other activities on a cell phone while a vehicle is in motion. The penalties for violating the proposed law would start at $75 and two points on the driver's license for first-time offenders, with escalating consequences for repeat offenses.

27 states and the District of Columbia have already implemented similar bans on handheld electronic devices while driving, demonstrating a nationwide recognition of the dangers posed by distracted driving.

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Following the hearing, the committee unanimously voted to move the bill forward, signaling a significant step towards its eventual passage. As the legislation progresses, it remains a vital issue in prioritizing public safety and curbing the alarming rates of distracted driving incidents in Colorado.

Critics argue that such measures may infringe on individual liberties, but supporters maintain that the potential risks associated with distracted driving necessitate stronger regulations to protect the lives of motorists, pedestrians, and cyclists alike.

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