Act provides incentive grants to states that adopt a ban on texting and handheld cell phone use for all drivers and a total cell phone ban for drivers younger than 18.

ITASCA, Ill., June 8 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The National Safety Council today announced its support for the Distracted Driving Prevention Act. The legislation, introduced by Sen. Jay Rockefeller (D-WV), would provide incentive grants to states that adopt a ban on texting and handheld cell phone use for all drivers and a total ban on cell phone use by drivers younger than 18.

In addition to restricting cell phone use by motorists, the bill also would create two high-visibility education and advertising campaigns, administered by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, to educate motorists about the dangers of texting and cell phone use while driving. The bill would require the Federal Communications Commission to collect data regarding wireless devices and existing and developing wireless communications technologies that have the potential to reduce the dangers of distracted driving.

"This is a major step in the right direction. We appreciate Chairman Rockefeller's leadership in introducing the legislation and bringing it up for a vote in the Senate Commerce Committee. This legislation will help save lives," said Janet Froetscher, NSC President and CEO. "We ask that committee members support the legislation and call on the Senate to quickly take up and pass the legislation," continued Froetscher.

The National Safety Council was the first national organization to call for a total ban on cell phone use while driving. Since its call for a ban more than a year ago, NSC has worked to educate business leaders, elected officials and others about the dangers of distracted driving.

The National Safety Council (www.nsc.org) saves lives by preventing injuries and deaths at work, in homes and communities, and on the roads through leadership, research, education and advocacy.

SOURCE National Safety Council

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