In another attempt to curtail distracted driving, the state legislature in Arkansas has given it’s approval for a ban on drivers using cell phones in school or work zones. The vote was approved in the state House of Representatives in a 52-41 vote.
Under the terms of the bill hands-free phones and GPS devices would not be subject to the ban. As well, these violations would be considered secondary offenses, meaning that motorists must be pulled over for a primary offense like speeding before law enforcement officers could cite them for cell phone use. The ban would be in force in school zones during school hours, and in highway work zones whenever workers were present.
The bill is now being advanced to the desk of Governor Mike Beebe. A spokesperson for the government says he plans to sign it into law.
The ban would go into effect on October 1.