Unbeknownst to me, an article I wrote was reprinted on Reason’s website, detailing the creeping efforts of Florida public officials to make ban cell phones in cars and public meetings.

Reason is a libertarian magazine that features great commentary and analysis on the pressing issues of our day.

Enjoy:

To ban or not to ban, that is the question.

Throughout the state of Florida, lawmakers and citizens’ groups are casting their ire on cell phones, demanding the government step in and ensure safety and transparency in one fell swoop.

In one case is a proposal to stop tech-loving drivers from picking up their cell phones while behind the wheel. In another, is a move to stop lawmakers from texting lobbyists during public meetins.

Though the proposals are  vastly different, they represent the growing push to legislate and regulate citizens’ relationships with their mobile devices.

The most visual protest occurred on Tuesday at the Tampa Convention Center, where the site played host to the first-ever Florida Distracted Driving Summit.

It was attended by some 300 public officials, lawmakers and car-crash victims sharing their stories.

“Florida needs to pass a distracted driving law,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood, one of the more high-profile attendees who delivered the keynote address. “We can make a difference. What it takes is really mobilizing people, educating people and having you all persuade legislators.”

Read more: Reason.com