4/19/07-A bill has died that would have required drivers to keep their hands off the phone.
Sponsored by Sen. Kim Hendren, R-Gravette, SB7 would have prohibited drivers from using hand-held phones. Talking on a phone equipped with a “hands-free” accessory would still have been permitted.
Drivers stopped for another offense who are found to be in violation of the proposed rules would have gotten off with a citation as a warning for the first offense. No penalty would have been imposed.
Additional offenses could have netted offenders a fine up to $50. The bill included an exemption for emergency calls.

12/21/06-Sen. Jim Hendren, R-Gravette, has introduced a bill that would require drivers to keep their hands off the phone.
SB7 would prohibit drivers from using hand-held phones. Talking on a phone equipped with a "hands-free" accessory would still be permitted.
Drivers stopped for another offense who are found to be in violation of the proposed rules would get off with a citation as a warning for the first offense. No penalty would be imposed.
Additional offenses could net offenders a fine up to $50. The bill includes an exemption for emergency calls.
The bill is expected to come up for consideration during the session that begins Jan. 8.
For Senate bill status, call (501) 682-5951.