Restrict age discrimination from ban on texting
Legislators continue to debate the texting while driving issue with hopes of enacting a law, which may have happened by the time you are reading this editorial. Much has been written and said about this topic already, but one term seems to be left out — age discrimination.
Despite the crafty efforts of some politicians to focus the ban on those with “restricted” licenses, versions of this proposed bill seem to target a specific age group — young drivers. Yes, younger people tend to text more, and they should be keeping their eyes on the road. But if our legislators are going to target one age group, they should tackle another.
Iowa law prevents most youth under age 16 from obtaining a driver’s license, despite some being perfectly capable and able to pass the necessary tests. Meanwhile, all 90-year-old residents can drive if they can pass the tests, despite not being able to turn their heads without rotating their entire upper torsos. If there is an age restriction on one end, there should be one on the other, too.
Sending text messages or e-mails on cellular phones while driving is dangerous — there’s no question about that. So is shaving, applying lipstick or adjusting the volume on hearing aids, but many people do these tasks while they drive.
The use of electronic communication devices while driving, which includes writing or sending text messages, is a serious matter worth debate. But use of the term “restricted” is too encompassing, as it includes individuals with adverse health conditions, those with drunken driving convictions and young drivers. Iowa Department of Transportation officials say the term “restricted” covers dozens of qualifying conditions.
Let’s be honest. This isn’t about drunk drivers or 85-year-old Buick drivers. It is about teens and something they frequently do that few elderly legislators truly understand.
Some want to pin the texting problem on young people, others think it should apply to all, and still others disagree with the ban entirely. The problem has been correctly identified, but the penalties should apply to people of all ages. CV
