The City Council again will take up a proposal to ban the use of handheld cell phones while driving.
The idea emerged yesterday as a council committee considered a bill to ban text messaging and video-game playing while driving. Some council members proposed expanding the bill to impose a more comprehensive ban on handheld devices, but the amendment was deferred to allow more time for discussion and public input.
The bill to ban text messaging and video-game playing while driving will go before the full council Jan. 28 for a final vote. If the measure passes, it would be the first restriction on using mobile phones while driving in the state, excluding military installations.
The bill would ban writing, sending or reading text-based communication while driving, including text messages, instant messages and e-mail.
Council members endorsed the idea of prohibiting cell phone use while driving without a hands-free device yesterday, calling it a long overdue solution to a real problem.
