Pubdate: Mon, 31 Mar 2003
Source: Wisconsin Rapids Tribune (WI)
Copyright: 2003 2001, The Daily Tribune
Contact:  http://www.wisinfo.com/dailytribune/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1609
Author: Gary Storck

SEAT-BELT LAW IS 'FEEL GOOD' ONLY

I couldn't agree more with James J. Baxter's column, "Propaganda used for 
belt laws" (March 11).

While I believe in wearing seat belts and always buckle up, I do not feel 
it is the role of government to coerce seat-belt use. Strongly suggest 
through education? Yes! But Big Brother should have no place in compelling 
wearing seat belts and using the failure to do so as an excuse to stop 
motorists.

Unfortunately, while these kinds of traffic stops often start out seemingly 
benign, they often get used as excuses for "fishing expeditions." As real 
threats to highway safety speed on by, a drug-sniffing dog is brought on 
the scene, finds a couple joints, and someone's son or daughter is facing a 
criminal record and loss of student aid.

We need less government and more personal responsibility. While these kinds 
of laws may seem reasonable, they are in reality just another example of 
"feel good" lawmaking that while creating the illusion of enhancing safety 
actually represent further erosion of our civil liberties. The legislature 
should reject this misguided proposal and start looking for ways to reduce 
the intrusion of government in our lives, not escalate it.

GARY STORCK

Madison