New bill would restrict driver phone use in Pennsylvania

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Pennsylvania lawmakers are looking to change the rules of the road when it comes to cell phone use behind the wheel.

A new bill would require hands-free technology for adults, and prohibit drivers under 18 from using a phone in the car at all.

The bill was introduced in the Pa. House of Representatives last week with a dozen sponsors.

All of them say the goal is to generate more traffic safety.

Several states in the region, including New Jersey, New York, Maryland and West Virginia, already prohibit drivers from using hand-held phones.

The City of Philadelphia has the same restriction.

The key wording from the Pa. bill reads, "no person shall operate a motor vehicle on a highway while using a hand-held mobile telephone to engage in a call while the vehicle is in motion."

The section pertaining to young drivers reads, "No person under 18 years of age shall use any handheld mobile telephone, including one with a hands-free accessory, while operating a moving motor vehicle."

The sponsors hope the bill will be voted on by the end of the year.

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