West Virginia lawmakers have introduced a bill that would ban drivers from using Google Glass from behind the wheel.
The bill specifies that the use of any “wearable computer with head mounted display” while operating a vehicle would result in a fine.
“I actually like the idea of the product and I believe it is the future, but last legislature we worked long and hard on a no-texting-and-driving law,” state Delegate Gary G. Howell, a Republican, told CNET. “It is mostly the young that are the tech-savvy that try new things. They are also our most vulnerable and underskilled drivers.”
“We heard of many crashes caused by texting and driving, most involving our youngest drivers. I see the Google Glass as an extension,” Mr. Howell, a self-described Libertarian, continued. “[W]hen I choose to use the Google Glass and cross the center-line of the road because I’m reading a text, then my actions affect someone else.”
Google Glass, which hasn’t yet made its debut, displays information in a smartphonelike format hands-free, can interact with the Internet via voice commands and uses Google’s Android operating system.
Other issues that have been addressed regarding Google Glass is privacy. Earlier this month, a Seattle dive bar — the 5 Point — became the first to ban the high-tech, augmented-reality spectacles.
SEE ALSO: Seattle dive bar bans Google glasses
• Jessica Chasmar can be reached at jchasmar@washingtontimes.com.
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