[Alexandria Radio Club Reflector] News Reporting at its "Best"

[Tom Kirby]

On 3/7/2018 9:13 AM, KA4GFY wrote:
> I spotted a news article on WTOP's website this morning while riding the train to work concerning using "Handheld Personal Communications Devices" while driving.
> 
> I thought this monster had been put to bed this session.
> 
> So, I did some digging on the VA General Assembly's website on the bills related to to "Handheld Personal Communications Devices" while driving.
> 
> The text in the news article obviously had not been updated since the original SB74, because article mentions exempting CB operators.  Huh??
> 
> The ONLY bill I saw that is still active that talks about handheld communications devices is HB181.  If you read the text of the bill, it spends more time time talking about work zones and most importantly, if use of the communications device diverts attention from the operation of the vehicle, its a traffic infraction.  It also talks about "certain" vehicles, but in true politician form, does not define "certain vehicles."  It DOES say something about using a handheld radio - based device while participating in a disaster relief situation, but NOTHING about exempting CB operators.
> 
> HB181 has passed the Senate and is headed back to the House.
> 
> And the news media wonders why nobody believes anything they say?  They need to get their facts straight before publishing.
> 
> 73,
> 
> Rich, KA4GFY

I have noted with sadness the deterioration of editing standards in all 
the news media. Back years ago, before the internet, a reporter/editor 
who couldn't spell would have been laughed out of the business. Now, bad 
spelling (and slipshod reporting) are normal.

I think it has something to do with the philosophy of report first, ask 
questions later.

-- Tom KJ4FUU