Ban Cell Phones at Public Meetings

I gave up my cell phone for Lent two years ago and am now suggesting our legislators give up theirs entirely.
I, along with 150 other concerned citizens, attended the census hearing conducted by the House and Senate governmental affairs redistricting committee Monday night at the Louisiana State Exhibit Museum.
The group gave a presentation for 55 minutes, then members of the audience who had requested to speak had three minutes to comment, give or take. The latter part lasted 50 minutes.
Of the 10 committee members on the front row lording over the meeting, three used their phones or palm devices at one time or another. One gentleman actually put his to his ear and the other two were either surfing the Internet, checking e-mail or texting.
I got even madder when I found out they received a per diem payment for nine meetings held across the state. They were working -- on our dollar -- and not paying attention. Plus, the behavior is rude and distracting and indicates that their minds are made up.
This begs investigation into an even bigger issue. Are we paying for these cellular data plans? If so, let’s stop the abuse.
I understand the importance of communication; it’s my major and vocation for 32 years. I have been attached to a phone or beeper since the early 90s and am as “addicted” as the next person. But if I can give up my personal phone for 40 days, certainly legislators can put theirs away for 40 to 50 minutes.
I regret I was unprepared to document the heads-down time of so many during this meeting and hear it’s happening amongst other elected officials. Next time I’ll be taking names and clocking the inattention to the constituents. I’ve got your number.