Many people, especially young people, in the United States complain that laws regulate personal behavior too much. Restrictions* aim at restaurant ingredients, mobile phone use, smoking and even parental discipline of kids.

New examples make headlines* regularly. Nineteen states have proposals to restrict or ban trans fat in restaurants and school cafeterias, or at least provide health warnings.

A New York State senator wants to prohibit use of personal electronics on the streets of major cities to avoid what he calls “iPod oblivion*,” which endangers pedestrians*, joggers* and cyclists.

Numerous states ban drivers from using cell phones without a headset. In California, meanwhile, an assemblywoman* plans to submit a proposal to outlaw* spanking* of kids under 3, as well as any physical punishment.

All this makes critics say lawmakers act like Big Brother or nagging* nannies. “The list of things Big Brother government can fine us for is endless. And it’s for our own good, of course,” says writer and blogger J.J. Jackson.

On the other side, defenders note that government already regulates restaurant sanitation*, smoking in workplaces and public sites, seat belt use, motorcycle helmets and other safety steps for the good of society.

(SD-Agencies)