State News

Lawmakers to Consider Phone Ban for Drivers

State Rep. Joseph Markosek, D-Allegheny, announced Thursday that he plans to introduce a bill that would ban the use of hand-held cell phones while driving.

By Melissa Daniels | PA Independent HARRISBURG — Driving while using a cell phone or other hand-held device could be prohibited in Pennsylvania. House Appropriations Minority Chairman Rep. Joseph Markosek, D-Allegheny, announced Thursday that he plans to introduce this proposed ban in the fall. Barry Ciccocioppo, Markosek’s communications director, said the ban is being introduced to help police enforce the current ban on texting while driving. “Somebody can have a phone in their hand and say they weren’t texting, they were dialing a number,” he said. The bill has not yet been circulated for co-sponsorship, but does have support within the Democratic caucus, Ciccocioppo said. Drivers caught using phones would be fined $50, or $100 if …

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