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Maine Weighs Revoking Seat Belt Law Days After 75-Car Pileup

By Alanna Durkin, The Associated Press
AUGUSTA, Maine - Maine lawmakers are considering a bill to allow adults to opt out of wearing seat belts just days after a 75-car pileup that injured at least 17 people.

Republican Sen. Eric Brakey said Friday that it's "unfortunate timing'' coming right after what is thought to be the largest crash in state history. He says he believes people should wear seat belts but sees a mandate as government overreach.

Opponents argued that repealing the seat belt law will result in more traffic deaths and the loss of federal grants.

New Hampshire is the only state that doesn't mandate seat belts for adults.

The Transportation Committee also considered two bills that would prohibit people from using a hand-held cell phone while driving. The panel didn't vote on any of the bills.