Hands off that cell phone, driver: MN panel OKs bill
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The bill targeting distracted driving by requiring any cell phone use to be hands-free is on the move at the state Capitol.
The House Transportation Committee advanced the bill Friday on a voice vote. Minnesota would be the 15th state with such a law.
Rep. Jim Newberger, R-Becker, a paramedic, defended the push as limited but necessary.
"We want you to be able to talk on the phone. We're not saying no to that," he said. "We're not trying to ban that. We just want you to be safe. Eyes on the road. Hands on the wheel."
The bill has varied penalties for being caught holding a device while driving. A first offense carries a $50 fine and subsequent offenses come with a $225 penalty. Exceptions would be made for cell phone use during emergencies.
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