    [United States Statutes at Large, Volume 124, 111th Congress, 2nd Session]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

    PROCLAMATION 8610--DEC. 1, 2010

    Proclamation 8610 of December 1, 2010
    National Impaired Driving Prevention Month, 2010
    By the President of the United States of America
    A Proclamation

    Every day, millions of Americans travel on our Nation's roadways.
    Thousands of these drivers and passengers tragically lose their lives
    each year because of drunk, drugged, or distracted driving. During
    National Impaired Driving Prevention Month, we recommit to preventing

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    the loss of life by practicing safe driving practices and reminding
    others to be sober, drug-free, and safe on the road.
    Impaired driving and its consequences can seriously alter or even
    destroy lives and property in a moment. This reckless behavior not only
    includes drunk driving, but also the growing problem of drugged driving.
    Drugs, including those prescribed by a physician, can impair judgment
    and motor skills. It is critical that we encourage our young people 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
    electronic equipment or texting while behind the wheel of a vehicle.
    When people take their attention away from the road to answer a call,
    respond 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
    distracted driving.
    My Administration is dedicated to strengthening efforts against drunk,
    drugged, and distracted driving. To lead by example, we have implemented
    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 Transportation's
    National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is also sponsoring 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 detected and
    appropriate action is taken. Additionally, the Office of National 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 Constitution and
    the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim December 2010 as
    National Impaired Driving Prevention Month. I urge all Americans to make
    responsible decisions and take appropriate measures 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