Law enforcement continues to push a bill that would ban use of electronic communications devices while driving. The bill is alive, but sources have indicated it is unlikely to clear both chambers.
In addition to efforts by law enforcement, Peter Bengtson has also been a consistent supporter of the legislation. His daughter was tragically killed by a person looking at their phone while driving, according to an Iowa State Patrol investigation.
Bengtson said the individual was looking at a Facebook post about buying a boat instead of driving down the road when he hit Ellen Bengtson and killed her.
“She wasn’t able to be represented in the courtroom because of the current law,” Peter Bengtson said at a subcommittee meeting. “It basically was so confusing and full of loopholes that her case was thrown out even though the driver confessed he was looking at and using his phone.”
In addition to law enforcement and Bengtson, the insurance industry and the Iowa Bicycle Coalition support the legislation.