http://www.thestate.com/mld/thestate/news/local/8534395.htmI hate to agree with the Republicans on anything, but I do agree with them on the seat belt issue. The government has no right to tell me that I have to wear a seat belt. The same goes for helmets for motorcycles and bicycles. It's my life. I take chances if I want to do so.
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Senate kills tougher seat belt legislationJIM DAVENPORT
Associated Press
COLUMBIA, S.C. - The South Carolina Senate killed a bill that would let police stop adult drivers for not wearing seat belts.
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The bill, which is favored by the majority of the Senate, has been held up by opponents saying it is unnecessary regulation. Those opponents have been filibustering for weeks and supporters of the bill didn't have enough votes to end the filibuster and take a vote on the bill.
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Wednesday's vote to kill the bill broke mostly along party lines in the Republican-controlled Senate. Many GOP legislators were concerned about a variety of bills languishing on the Senate's calendar that faced a Friday deadline to pass so the House can consider them.
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The state already requires drivers and passengers to wear seat belts. However, police can only ticket adult drivers for the offense if they are pulled over for another violation. Police can stop cars when children or drivers younger than 18 aren't wearing seat belts.
Opponents said the change took government powers to the point of invading personal liberties. That fight was led by Senate President Pro Tem Glenn McConnell, R-Charleston.