The General Assembly is considering a bill that would make distracted walking a fineable offense.  Senator Tony Hwang, whose district includes Newtown, questioned if lawmakers were trying to legislate what should be common sense. He added that there are, rightfully, distracted driving laws but that the state doesn't do enough to enforce them.

He also questioned how practical it is for the state to enforce the distracted walking proposal.  Pedestrians would first receive a warning and then be subject to a $20 fine for subsequent offenses. 

No other state has such a law, but some cities like Honolulu do have distracted walking ordinances. 

Proponents of the measure to crack down on people crossing the street while looking at a cellphone say it's about trying to protect the person who should be aware when they’re putting themselves at risk.  Advocates of the proposal say a small fine could help people recognize that they have that obligation to use common sense.