7/13/05-Gov. M. Jodi Rell signed a bill into law July 1 that adds the state to the short list of states that require drivers to keep their hands off the phone. The new rule takes effect Oct. 1.
The new rule bans hand-held cell phone use while driving. Talking on a phone equipped with a “hands-free” device will still be permitted for most drivers.
Drivers under age 18 and school bus drivers are banned from using any phone.
The new law, previously HB6722, makes it an offense to drive while using a hand-held phone – meaning they would have to be pulled over for another violation, such as speeding, before they could be ticketed for talking on the phone. Violators would face up to a $100 fine. Emergency calls are exempted.
Included in the new rule is a provision to add a $100 fine to those who drive erratically or cause an accident because they’re engaging in activities such as drinking coffee, reading maps, eating or putting on makeup while behind the wheel.

6/3/05-The Senate voted 32-4 June 2 to advance a bill that would ban hand-held cell phone use while driving. Talking on a phone equipped with a “hands-free” device would still be permitted for most drivers.
HB6722, which previously passed the House, now moves to Gov. M. Jodi Rell. She has indicated she will sign the bill into law.
Drivers under age 18 and school bus drivers would be banned from using any phone.
The bill would make it an offense to drive while using a hand-held phone – meaning they would have to be pulled over for another violation, such as speeding, before they could be ticketed for talking on the phone. Violators would face up to a $100 fine with an exception for anyone making an emergency call.
Included in the bill is a provision that would add $100 to the fine of those who drive erratically or cause an accident because they’re engaging in activities such as drinking coffee, reading maps, eating or putting on makeup.
If signed into law in Connecticut, the cell-phone restriction would take effect Oct. 1.
For bill status, call (860) 240-0555.

5/26/05-The Joint Committee on Energy and Technology approved a bill May 23 that would ban hand-held cell phone use while driving. Talking on a phone equipped with a “hands-free” device would still be permitted for most drivers.
HB6722 has been forwarded to the full Senate for further consideration. If approved there, the bill, which previously passed the House, would head to Gov. M. Jodi Rell, who has said she will sign the bill in its current version.
Drivers under age 18 and school bus drivers would be banned from using any phone.
Violators would face a $100 fine with an exception for anyone making an emergency call.
Included in the bill is a provision that would add $100 to the fine of those who drive erratically or cause an accident because they’re engaging in activities such as drinking coffee, reading maps, eating or putting on makeup.
For bill status, call (860) 240-0555.

5/2/05-The House voted 116-24 April 28 to approve a bill that would require drivers to keep their hands off the phone. Talking on a phone equipped with a “hands-free” device would still be permitted for most drivers.
HB6722 has been sent to the Senate for further consideration. If approved, it would head to Gov. M. Jodi Rell, who has said she will sign the bill in its current version.
Drivers under age 18 and school bus drivers would be banned from using any phone.
Violators would face a $100 fine with an exception for anyone making an emergency call.
Included in the bill is a provision that would add $100 to the fine of those who drive erratically or cause an accident because they’re engaging in activities such as drinking coffee, reading maps, eating or putting on makeup.
For bill status, call (860) 240-0555.