Across the nation, 26 states have banned the use of cell phones while behind the wheel. Pennsylvania will be the next to join that list.
Pennsylvania will join the majority of states that ban motorists from using a cell phone while driving as state lawmakers hope to reduce distracted driving crashes.HARRISBURG, Pa. — Pennsylvania will join the majority of states that ban motorists from handling a cell phone for almost any purpose while driving, as backers of the legislation hope to reduce distracted driving accidents and deaths after nearly two decades of pressing the measure.
Sen. Rosemary Brown, R-Monroe, had pushed for more than a decade to toughen Pennsylvania's restriction on cell phone use while driving. Its passage is a “monumental victory” for Pennsylvania that will protect drivers, prevent crashes and save lives, Brown said in a statement. Other exceptions include for navigational use or alerting emergency responders. A first offense is punishable by a $50 fine and offenders who cause serious accidents could get more time in prison.“I’ve met too many families that have an empty seat at the dinner table because of distracted driving.
Twenty-eight states already ban cell phone use while driving, according information from the National Conference of State Legislatures.Rep. Napoleon Nelson, D-Montgomery, the chair of the Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus, said caucus members were concerned that police could abuse a broad new power to pull over motorists and target racial minorities.
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