Washington state just passed some of the most restrictive distracted driving laws in the country. Would you like to see similar laws here in Minnesota?

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According to this Seattle TV station story, it's now illegal in the state of Washington to even HOLD an electronic device while driving. That's right -- even HOLDING it can get you a ticket!

The story says "The distracted driving law means drivers may not use hand-held cell phones while driving, stopped in traffic or at a stop light. This includes tablets, laptops, games or other hand-held electronic devices. Drivers cannot watch movies while driving. Hands-free use is limited to a single touch or swipe."

But, wait-- there's more. The story goes on to say that "As part of the new distracted driving law, drivers who can also get a $99 ticket for other types of distractions such as grooming, smoking, eating or reading if the activity interferes with safe driving and drivers are pulled over for another traffic offense."

Wow. I get that distracted driving is a big problem, and that people on their mobile devices is mainly to blame. And while it's always been illegal to do any activity -- like eating a burger, tuning the radio, or even trying to talk to your kids in the backseat -- that interferes with your ability to drive your vehicle, these new Washington laws seem a bit harsh.

Heck, even our current Minnesota law that makes it illegal to check your phone even while you're stopped in traffic or at a red light seems a bit much to me. But maybe that's just me. What do you think?

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