Alan Greenblatt is a GOVERNING correspondent.
E-mail: mailbox@governing.comTwitter: @governing
Good Idea, Bad Legislation
Here's what may be the ultimate "nanny state" legislative proposal.
A New York State senator wants to impose $100 fines on anyone who crosses the street wearing an iPod. Or using a BlackBerry. Or playing a handheld video game.
"Government has an obligation to protect its citizenry," Senator Carl Kruger told Reuters. "This electronic gadgetry is reaching the point where it's becoming not only endemic but it's creating an atmosphere where we have a major public safety crisis at hand."
Yes, people should put down their toys while they cross the street. But good luck enforcing such a ban.
Written and compiled by staff writers and editors, GOVERNING View is an on-the-ground, and sometimes behind-the-scenes, look at the topics we're covering in print and online. From notes on what's up in statehouses, county courthouses and city halls, to encounters with people, places and things, GOVERNING View is a window into the side of state and local government you don't always see.
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