Proposed Law Would Punish Mainers Who Use Cell Phones While Driving

The state Senate on Tuesday approved a bill that would make it illegal to use cellphones while driving.

The bill would still allow drivers to use “hands free” devices.

First-time offenders would have to pay a $50 fine. Repeat offenders would pay up to $250 in fines.

Republican Senator Roger Katz of Augusta says an estimated 2,000 accidents and 12 deaths were connected to cellphones in 2014.

Republican Senator Eric Brakey of Auburn opposes the bill. He said noisy kids also distract people. Brakey asked if lawmakers would next try to ban children from the backseats of automobiles.

The measure now heads to the Maine House of Representatives.