Senate Passes Bill Limiting Cell Phone Use While Driving

Minnesota drivers will no longer be able to hold their cell phones while making a call, under a bill passed by the Senate Monday, March 25. Sponsored by Senate Transportation Chair Scott Newman, R-Hutchinson, the proposed law requires drivers to use "hands free" cell phone technology for phone calls and various applications, but it does allow drivers to use the phone for navigation.

The Senate accepted an amendment offered by Senator Bobby Joe Champion, DFL-Minneapolis, that would allow drivers to place the phone in a scarf, hijab or other piece of clothing. The Senate also accepted an amendment exempting the prohibition while operating a car on private property.