By Larry Penner, Great Neck
City Council Finance Committee Chairman and 2009 city comptroller candidate David Weprin (D-Hollis) made headlines with a proposed piece of Council legislation. His latest idea is a bill banning texting while driving. He believes this regulation is worthwhile, even if it saves one life.
Common sense tells drivers not to drink coffee, smoke, read, put on make-up, drink or talk on cell phones while driving. Car insurers use offer discounts to those who practice safe driving. Drivers are aware that any distraction might momentarily result in a loss of concentration with unknown consequences.
How far does Weprin believe government should serve as a nanny to citizens? It appears as far as necessary.
What Weprin neglected to mention is that his own legal staff advised everyone, including himself, last year that the city has no legal authority in this area. New York state actually has the authority.
