Pennsylvania to Ban Use of Cell Phone While Driving
HARRISBURG, Pa. (NEWSnet/AP) — Pennsylvania will ban drivers from handling a cell phone for almost any purpose.
Currently, Pennsylvania's restriction on cell phone use while driving applies only to texting.
Under the bill, police may ticket a driver who is handling a phone. Drivers still are allowed to use a phone for calls or listening to music, if they use hands-free technology.
Other exceptions include for navigational use or alerting emergency responders. A first offense is punishable by a $50 fine and offenders who cause serious crashes could get time in prison.
The ban applies to motorists in traffic or stopped at a light, but does not include a driver who has parked at the side of the road or another place where a vehicle can remain stopped safely.
The proposal also includes a provision that requires larger police departments and Pennsylvania State Police,to collect and publicly report data on traffic stops, including a driver's race.
The bill passed both chambers of the state Legislature this week. Gov. Josh Shapiro's office said Thursday he will sign the bill. The ban would take effect one year after signage.
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