6/27/05-A bill that sought to restrict the use of cell phones by drivers has died.
SB139, sponsored by Sen. Rodney Ellis, D-Houston, remained in the Senate Transportation and Homeland Security Committee at the deadline for bills to pass from the chamber, effectively killing it for the year.
The bill called for banning hand-held cell phone use while driving. Talking on a phone equipped with a “hands-free” device would still have been permitted.
A similar bill – SB146 – met the same fate.

4/26/05-A bill in the Senate Transportation and Homeland Security Committee would restrict the use of cell phones by drivers.
SB139, sponsored by Sen. Rodney Ellis, D-Houston, would ban hand-held cell phone use while driving. Talking on a phone equipped with a “hands-free” device would still be permitted.
If approved, the new law would take effect Sept. 1, 2005.
For bill status, call (512) 463-2182. In Texas, call 1-877-824-7038.

1/14/05-Sen. Rodney Ellis, D-Houston, has filed a bill that would restrict the use of cell phones by drivers in Texas.
SB139 would ban hand-held cell phone use while driving. Talking on a phone equipped with a “hands-free” device would still be permitted.
If approved, the new law would take effect Sept. 1, 2005.
It is awaiting assignment to a committee.
For bill status, call (512) 463-2182. In Texas, call 1-877-824-7038.
A similar Senate bill – SB146 – also is awaiting assignment to a committee.