[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