Page:United States Statutes at Large Volume 124.djvu/4786

 124 STAT. 4760 PROCLAMATION 8610—DEC. 1, 2010 the loss of life by practicing safe driving practices and reminding oth- ers to be sober, drug-free, and safe on the road. Impaired driving and its consequences can seriously alter or even de- stroy lives and property in a moment. This reckless behavior not only includes drunk driving, but also the growing problem of drugged driv- ing. Drugs, including those prescribed by a physician, can impair judg- ment and motor skills. It is critical that we encourage our young peo- ple and fellow citizens to make responsible decisions when driving or riding as a passenger, especially if drug use is apparent. This National Impaired Driving Prevention Month, we must also draw attention to the dangers of distracted driving, including using elec- tronic equipment or texting while behind the wheel of a vehicle. When people take their attention away from the road to answer a call, re- spond to a message, or use a device, they put themselves and others at risk. Distracted driving is a serious, life-threatening practice, and I encourage everyone to visit Distraction.gov to learn how to prevent dis- tracted driving. My Administration is dedicated to strengthening efforts against drunk, drugged, and distracted driving. To lead by example, we have imple- mented a nationwide ban prohibiting Federal employees from texting while driving on Government business or when using a Government device. This holiday season, the United States Department of Transpor- tation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is also spon- soring the campaign, ‘‘Drunk Driving: Over the Limit. Under Arrest.’’ Thousands of police departments and law enforcement agencies across the Nation will redouble their efforts to ensure impaired drivers are de- tected and appropriate action is taken. Additionally, the Office of Na- tional Drug Control Policy is working with Federal agencies to raise public awareness about the high prevalence of drugged driving in our country, and to provide resources for parents of new drivers about how to talk to their children about drugs. As responsible citizens, we must not wait until tragedy strikes, and we must take an active role in preventing debilitated driving. Individuals, families, businesses, community organizations, drug-free coalitions, and faith-based groups can promote substance abuse prevention and encourage alternative sources of transportation. By working together, we can help save countless lives and make America’s roadways safer for all. NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Con- stitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim Decem- ber 2010 as National Impaired Driving Prevention Month. I urge all Americans to make responsible decisions and take appropriate meas- ures to prevent impaired driving. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this first day of December, in the year of our Lord two thousand ten, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fifth. BARACK OBAMA