Podcast: 'On The Records asks -- Can Iowa pass a new 'hands-free communication' bill for drivers?

This installment of On the Record talks about a proposed bill which hopes to prevent any distractions, not just texting, for drivers to make travel safer and possibly, save lives.

The guest today is Maj. John Godar with the Linn County Sheriff's Office, who is also working on the bill as the immediate past president of Iowa State Sheriffs and Deputies Association. The coalition, which includes the association, other public safety, wireless and insurance partners, have been working on the 'Hands-Free Communication' bill for several months. The coalition is hoping their version will replace the current texting while driving law, which they say isn't enforceable.

This bill 'takes phones completely out of the hands of drivers,' not only for texting but for talking, using GPS, playing music tracks or games, or looking up contacts -- all activities which are now legal, Godar says.

On the Record, a podcast covering crime, courts and other legal topics, is hosted by Trish Mehaffey and produced by Richard Pratt.