Citizenship Alabama Focus

Alabama Youth Approve Ban on Texting While Driving During CAF '10

While the Alabama Legislature may have tabled a vote on banning texting while driving, youth from around the state participating in a mock legislative forum supported the ban.

More than 70 youth from 24 Alabama counties were in Montgomery for Citizenship Alabama Focus '10, a three-day program in March to learn about Alabama government, civic responsibility and leadership. This year's session featured an intensive Alabama 4-H Legislature, and youth were presented a proposed bill, much like the one currently before members of the Alabama House of Representatives.

Youth were welcomed to Montgomery by Alabama House Speaker Seth Hammett, a former Alabama 4-H'er. He encouraged the youth to pursue excellence, work hard and live by example. "I never had an idea I would seek state office, but I always worked hard at everything I did," he told the group. "Those were values instilled in me at a young age and they have served me well. I encourage you to do the same."

Youth were divided into two parties, media and concerned citizens. The parties then drew to see which side of the debate they would be on, chose leaders and began research and wrote amendments.

Youth spent one day inside the Alabama House of Representative chambers, where they debated the bill, introduced, discussed and voted on numerous amendments written by the youth, before a final vote was taken. Concerned citizens held rallies to persuade members of each party and members of the media covered the event. The final vote was 43 for passage of the bill to ban texting while driving, and 26 against the measure.

"With a bill such as this one, we had a real impact on making a difference and stating our views,” said Lydia Searcy of Jefferson County, a member of the media for CAF.

"Texting is small, in comparison to D.U.I.," said Devin Humphries of Walker County, who was a member of group opposing the ban. "There are more important things...last I checked we were in a recession."

"We worked together as a party. We did our part in getting our point across," said Brad Spraggins, a Tallapoosa County youth attending CAF.

"It was a good learning experience," said Garyn Henderson of Barbour County. "I enjoyed the debate."

CAF participants were treated to a dinner at the Capital City Club followed by viewing Radio Days at the Davis Theatre for the Performing Arts. Youth also participated in tours of Montgomery, including the Department of Archives and History; the Mann Wildlife Museum, Southern Homes and Gardens as well as WAKA television station.