News Local/State

House Sends Cellphone Ban to Gov. Quinn

By The Associated Press
 

A proposal that would ban the use of cellphones while driving in Illinois is headed to Gov. Pat Quinn's desk.

The House approved the bill 69-48 Tuesday, following a Senate vote late last week. Quinn's spokeswoman says the Chicago Democrat will review the bill once he receives it.

The proposal says motorists must use hands-free devices or speakerphone functions on their phones.

Only two House lawmakers from East Central Illinois approved the bill - Naomi Jakobsson (D-Urbana) and Dan Brady (R-Bloomington.)

Police would be able to ticket drivers holding a cellphone except during emergencies. Dozens of Illinois communities, including Chicago, already ban talking on cellphones while driving.

Sponsor Democratic Sen. John Mulroe says the bill makes roads safer. Opponents, including Rep. Jack Franks, say there are many other ways of distracted driving.

House members first approved the plan in March.