Rhinelander could be the next community banning the use of cell phones while driving.
A committee Tuesday agreed to look into the ban over the next 30 days.
Alderman GeorgeKirby brought the request forward, saying he's concerned about safety...
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"....we've(all) seen somebody not driving properly, not paying attention while driving...on the way here I kept track and there (were) 12 people on cellphones between my house and city hall...."
The Wisconsin legislature is toying with the idea of a statewide ban. Mayor Dick Johns favored that approach, saying Rhinelander police would do the work and the state would get most of the money...
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"....who is getting the money(from) the fines? Is it going to the state like a lot of others are? What's the percentage, got any idea?
Police Chief Michael Steffes says the current inattentive driving laws would cover it, but should the city pass a ban, officers could pull people over if they see people with one hand on a cell phone...
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"...it isn't something that would be overly encompassing to our officers or using up too much of their time because it would be another tool for them to stop a dangerous situation...."
Steffes says if the ban is enacted, he would favor a period of warnings before fines are given so the public could adjust. The committee took no action, but will revisit the proposal next month at the committee level.
