MIDDLESBORO — State Representative Rick G. Nelson, D-Middlesboro, recently filed a bill that would prohibit the use of a cell phone — to send text messages — while operating a motor vehicle.

Rep. Nelson said that the main reason for the texting ban extended from months of public outcry. He explained that several people within the community recently complained to him about being in near accidents — due to people texting while driving — and said that the issue needed to be addressed as soon as possible.

“It got them real upset,” stated Nelson. He went on to say that the texting while driving issue “is kind of a hot topic right now,” and maintained that the ban is in the best interest of the community in terms of safety.

However, Nelson’s proposed text-messaging ban would only forbid drivers under the age of 18 from texting while driving. Some argue that texting while operating a vehicle is dangerous regardless of one’s age.

“Is drinking and driving any safer if you’re 21 or older? No,” declared Middlesboro resident Malcolm Bailey. “Texting and driving is the same. It is dangerous for people of all ages.”

Nelson stated that the reason for the age limit stemmed from recent statistics. He said that individuals between the ages of 16 and 18 are statistically more vulnerable and more likely to be in or cause accidents.

“Drivers that age don’t have a lot of experience driving, so it was basically to give the parents of young drivers peace of mind,” Nelson maintained.

Kentucky Gov. Steve Beshear also considers texting while driving to be extremely hazardous. He stated that the reckless act is quite common amongst state employees, and recently issued an executive order banning texting while driving in a state vehicle.

According to the Governor’s Highway Safety Association, 19 states and the District of Columbia now ban text messaging for all drivers, and 15 states have primary enforcement — which means that a law enforcement official may ticket a driver for using a handheld cell phone while driving without any other traffic offense taking place.

Currently, the state of Kentucky has cell phone bans for school bus drivers, and implements primary enforcement. Six states, including Kentucky, have preemption laws that prohibit local jurisdictions from constituting restrictions. In other states, localities are allowed to ban cell phone use, or texting while driving.

Nelson claims that insurance companies are raising their premiums because of accidents related to texting while driving.

Adam Young is a Staff Writer for the Middlesboro Daily News. He can be contacted by e-mail at ayoung@middlesborodailynews.com.