Lawmakers mull ban on using cellphones while driving

March 6, 2016 9:52 am

By The Associated Press

news@abc6.com

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) _ Rhode Island lawmakers are set to vote on a bill that would outlaw the use of cellphones while driving.

The Senate is scheduled to take up the bill on Wednesday.

The legislation would prohibit drivers from using hand-held wireless communication devices except in emergencies.

Using a hand-held phone while driving is now banned in 14 states, including Connecticut, New Hampshire, and Vermont.

Democratic Sen. Susan Sosnowski, of South Kingstown, introduced the bill.

The Senate voted 32-0 to pass the legislation last year but it stalled in the House.

The House Judiciary Committee is now studying a companion bill sponsored by Democratic Rep. Teresa Tanzi, of South Kingstown.

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