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Bill to tighten distracted‑driving rules advances after heated debate over downgrading seat‑belt enforcement
Summary
Senate Bill 5‑34 would strengthen distracted‑driving prohibitions but also move seat‑belt enforcement from primary to secondary; law‑enforcement, public‑health and insurance witnesses warned that downgrading seat‑belt enforcement would reduce use, increase fatalities and risk federal funding, but the committee ultimately recorded the bill as passed despite a confused voice vote.
Senator Johnson introduced Senate Bill 5‑34 as a package that tightens distracted‑driving rules — including a near‑complete prohibition on device use by drivers under 18 and stricter limits for ages 18–21 — while also proposing to change seat‑belt enforcement from primary to secondary.
The committee heard extended testimony from law enforcement, public‑health experts, insurers and the Department of Transportation opposing the seat‑belt rollback. Director Bill Bridal of the Arkansas State Police (identified in testimony) said the distracted‑driving changes were welcome but that downgrading seat‑belt enforcement would be "a step backwards," citing lower seat‑belt use and lives saved since primary enforcement was adopted.
An unidentified…
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