The Florida Senate Transportation Committee recently passed SB 1318, a bill introduced by Sen. Erin Grall that aims to make the state a hands-free driving zone. The bill proposes extending the current ban on texting while driving to include all handheld use of wireless communication devices, aligning Florida with 30 other states that have similar laws. During the committee meeting, Grall highlighted the alarming statistics of crashes and fatalities caused by distracted driving in Florida, emphasizing the need for stricter regulations to prevent further tragedies. Advocates, including Demetrius Branca who lost his son to a distracted driver, spoke in support of the bill, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing safety over convenience. Representatives from AARP and the Naples Pathways Coalition also expressed concerns about public safety, particularly for older adults and pedestrians. Sen. Tracie Davis, who tragically lost her sister to a distracted driver, voiced her support for the bill and offered to collaborate with Grall to push the legislation forward. The bill will next be reviewed by the Appropriations Committee on Transportation, Tourism, and Economic Development in the Florida Senate, while a companion bill in the House is awaiting its first committee hearing. Overall, the proposed “Florida Hands-Free Driving Law” seeks to reduce the risks associated with distracted driving and protect the lives of Florida residents on the road.
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