25-3498 Expressing Support of Legislation Mandating Hands-Free Devices

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RESOLUTION 25-3498 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF CASSELBERRY, FLORIDA, EXPRESSING SUPPORT FOR LEGISLATION MANDATING THE USE OF HANDS-FREE DEVICES WHILE DRIVING; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICTS, SEVERABILITY, AND EFFECTIVE DATE. WHEREAS, the City has set a Vision Zero Goal to achieve zero fatalities and severe injuries on all City -owned streets by 2030 and all streets and roads in the City by 2040; and WHEREAS, distracted driving is a leading cause of motor vehicle crashes in the United States, contributing to thousands of injuries and fatalities each year; and WHEREAS, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that handheld device interaction while driving increases the risk of crashing by 23 times; and WHEREAS, NHTSA also reports handheld device interaction while driving is six times more dangerous than driving under the influence of alcohol; and WHEREAS, a study from Cambridge Mobile Telematics reported an increase in screen interaction time while driving of 17.8% from 2020 to 2023; and WHEREAS, the use of handheld devices while driving significantly impairs a driver's ability to safely operate a vehicle, diverting attention from the road and increasing reaction times; and WHEREAS, the City of Casselberry, Florida, has witnessed an increase in traffic crashes attributed to distracted driving, affecting the safety of men, women, and children who reside in and visit the City; and WHEREAS, implementing hands-free device use legislation can reduce the incidence of distracted driving, saving lives and promoting safer roadways for all; and WHEREAS, 31 states have successfully enacted hands-free laws, resulting in a measurable decrease in crashes and fatalities related to distracted driving; and WHEREAS, it is the responsibility of the local government to advocate for the safety and well-being of its community. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF CASSELBERRY, FLORIDA, AS FOLLOWS: SECTION I. The City Commission of the City of Casselberry hereby expresses its strong support for legislation mandating the use of hands-free devices while driving and urges the Florida State Legislature to pass such legislation to enhance road safety and protect lives.