Should it Be Illegal to Use Your Cell While Driving If It's Not Hands-Free?

By SUSAN PETRONI (Patch Staff)

Massachusetts lawmakers will begin debating legislation to make it illegal to drive in Massachusetts with your cell phone in hand.

A public hearing is being held today, Tuesday, Oct. 6, on a proposed bill that would require drivers to use Bluetooth or other hands-free devices, while driving except to report emergencies.

There are 14 states, including New Hampshire, Connecticut, and New York that have hands-free laws.

It has been illegal in Massachusetts since 2010, for drivers under age 18 to use their phones in their vehicles.

Texting and driving is already illegal in the Commonwealth. Drivers caught are given a $100 ticket for the first offense, $250 for the second, then $500 afterwards.

One of the bills proposed in the Massachusetts House of Representatives seeks to toughen up distracted driving penalties, boosting the initial fine to $250 and a permit or license suspension for 90 days for the first offense, $500 for the second, $750 for subsequent offenses.

There are also proposed fines for drivers using their phones, if a hand-free state law passes. The fines range from $100 to $1,500.