6/23/04-A bill that would target people who talk on a cellular phone while driving is once again up for consideration in the Assembly.
A3675, sponsored by Assemblyman Felix Ortiz, D-Brooklyn, was introduced during the 2003 legislative session but failed to move forward. The bill was reintroduced earlier this year.
Talking on a hand-held cell phone already is illegal in the state.
The bill would provide that drivers who cause accidents resulting in serious physical injury or death while talking on a mobile phone shall be subject to identical criminal penalties as those persons who cause accidents resulting in serious physical injury or death while driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
It would also impose a penalty of two points against a person’s driver’s license when convicted of a violation of driving while using a cellular phone.
The bill is in the Assembly Committee on Codes.
For bill status, call (518) 455-7545. In New York, call 1-800-342-9860.