SPRINGFIELD - The Illinois House voted Friday before adjourning to ban the use of handheld cell phones while driving. The vote, 64 to 46, has one Republican listed as a sponsor - State Rep. David Harris.
HB 1247 would allow the use of hands-free devices, two-way radios, and electronic devices capable of performing multiple functions as long as these devices are not used for a prohibited purpose, such as texting.
Disobeying the ban would cost the violator $75 for the first offense, $100 for second, $125 for third and $150 for fourth and consecutive offenses.
Talking on a hand-held cellphone while driving is banned in 10 states (California, Connecticut, Delaware, Maryland, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Washington, and West Virginia) and the District of Columbia
The roll call on HB 1247 was not entirely along party lines. Eight Democrats - Beiser, Costello, DeLuca, Franks, Jefferson, Mautino, Mayfield and Phelps - voted "No" and five Republicans - Brady, co-sponsor David Harris, Pritchard, Sacia and McAuliffe - voted "Yes." HB 1247 now proceeds for consideration in the Illinois Senate.
