State Representatives Pass Cell Phone Ban While Driving Bill

Springfield, IL -- Talking on your cell phone while driving could soon be illegal, unless you're using a hands-free device or speakerphone. State representatives passed the measure today but not without opposition.
 
Opponents say the bill doesn't do enough to address other types of distracted driving, like eating or doing make-up. Representative David Harris, who co-sponsored the bill, says he's troubled by the proposal but admits it's something that must be done. Getting caught texting or holding your cell phone while you're behind the wheel would cost 75-dollars for the first offense, double that for four or more offenses.
 
The idea is to reduce the number of traffic accidents and fatalities as a result of distracted driving. There are exceptions in emergency situations and police officers would be exempt from the law. The plan passed with a 62-53 vote and now heads to the Senate. Senate President John Cullerton has said he'd support the idea. - http://goo.gl/gf4np