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Publication Date: Friday, January 23, 2004 Cell phone bill is back
Cell phone bill is back
(January 23, 2004) Legislator pushes hands-free talking
The issue of hands-free cellular phones is back on the legislative agenda, according to state Assemblyman Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto), who planned to introduce a new version of his cell phone bill to the Assembly on Tuesday.
The legislation would require drivers to use hands-free technology while talking on phones in their vehicles.
Simitian says momentum is growing for the bill. Last year, for the first time, the legislation passed in the Assembly but stalled in the Senate.
"I'm trying again because the bill will save lives,'' the Assemblyman explained.
"I'm cautiously optimistic our perseverance will pay off.''
Earlier this month, Simitian got a huge boost when the Los Angeles City Council voted to support the bill. A similar measure is pending in Washington D.C. and in 2001, New York prohibited drivers from using hand-held phones while driving.
"I think the timing is right,'' Simitian said.
--Bay City News
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