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.
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