3/24/04-A bill that would prohibit drivers from using mobile phones – even “hands-free” devices – has died.
The proposal remained in the Senate Criminal, Civil and Public Policy Committee at the close of the legislative session that ended in mid March.
SB131, sponsored by Sen. Rose Ann Antich-Carr, D-Merrillville, sought to make Indiana the first state to ban hands-free cell phones for drivers.
Under the proposal, talking on a phone while driving would be a secondary offense, meaning police could only ticket drivers if pulled over for some other offense. Violators could be fined $1,000.

1/21/04-A Senate measure would prohibit people from using mobile phones – even “hands-free” devices – while they drive.
The bill, sponsored by Sen. Rose Ann Antich-Carr, D-Merrillville, would make Indiana the first state to ban hands-free cell phones for drivers.
The infraction would be a secondary offense, meaning police could only ticket drivers if pulled over for some other offense. Violators could be fined $1,000.
SB131 would exempt emergency calls.
It has been forwarded to the Senate Criminal, Civil and Public Policy Committee. For bill status, call (317) 232-9856.