Illinois lawmakers are considering a bill that would prohibit the use of a cellphone while crossing a street.
The bill, sponsored by state Rep. Kenneth Dunkin (D-Chicago), isn't anywhere close to becoming law, but it's drawing a host of reactions -- from outrage to ridicule to grudging acceptance. Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White says he's behind the basic concept of the bill, although he thinks it should only be used to punish those who use their phones while jaywalking.
Interestingly, Chicago Mayor Richard Daley might support the idea:
Mayor Daley has often said he's not a fan of government intruding into people's lives, but he did not slam the door Wednesday on the controversial proposal.
"People have to understand, a lot of people are getting injured and killed by cars in pedestrian walks," the mayor said. "It's a safety factor. So, like anything else, you have to use common sense if you're walking across."
Still, no one seems to be considering my personal wish -- a ban on cellphone use in public restrooms.
