Ban on drivers’ cell phones likely to be law

Published 9:00 pm Tuesday, April 10, 2007

OLYMPIA – Legislation disconnecting drivers from their hand-held cell phones passed the House of Representatives today and is now speeding along toward becoming law.

The bill will make a brief stop in the Senate next week to pick up a final stamp of approval then continue its journey to Gov. Chris Gregoire who is expected to sign it.

The bill bans the use of hand-held cell phones starting July 1, 2008.

Violations amount to an infraction carrying a fine of $101.

The House passed the bill on a 59-38 vote.

Supporters said the measure will save lives while opponents argued it should be revised to deal with other types of driver distractions including eating and drinking.