This proposal is from SAFER STREETS FOR SIOUX FALLS;
Updated Synopsis
Here is the information that has been sent to the individuals, corporations and institutions that have expressed an interest in supporting SSFSF. This is a new effort to improve public safety while driving in Sioux Falls.  SSFSF is a group of individuals, institutions and organizations in Sioux Falls formed to present a proposed ordinance to the City that would prohibit the use of any hand held portable electronic device while driving in Sioux Falls. This would be a Sioux Falls ordinance and not have any application outside of the City. It would prohibit, while driving, all forms of electronic communication while holding any electronic device. That includes surfing the Internet with a smart phone, texting both sending and receiving, cell phone conversations, game playing, etc. Austin and San Antonio, TX are the two most recent cities to ban hand held electronic devices while driving.
The use of hands free electronic devices to make and receive telephone or audio transmissions is permitted. GPS devices are allowed if affixed to the vehicle. Calls to emergency personnel are permitted. All other uses of hand held electronic devices would only be permitted if you park your vehicle. Emergency and medical personnel are exempt if they are acting in an official capacity.
I’m against this for a number of reasons, first the obvious. Educating drivers on how to be better drivers goes a heckuva a lot farther then any laws.
Secondly, it would be a nightmare for the SFPD to enforce. And thirdly, like the unneeded texting ban, there are already laws in place for reckless and careless driving. If you are distracted while driving (talking on phone, playing with the radio, arguing with others in the car, or even spilling hot coffee on yourself) and cause an accident, you can be charged. A total cell phone ban is unfair to those who can handle driving while talking on a phone.
Like I said above, I am all for EDUCATION. I would even be willing to have the city council authorize spending $100,000K on it. But a ban on cell phone use in cars, good luck with that.
I also believe this would truly set the city up for a battle with the state legislature, the Attorney General and the Courts.
I suggest to the group, if they want the ban, to have a petition drive and get it on the ballot. This is too complicated of an issue to let 8 people and a mayor decide. I think it would also be something that would be very difficult to pass on the council.
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