Massachusetts House Gives Initial OK To Hands-Free Cellphone Bill

BOSTON (AP) — A bill that would require hands-free cellphone use by Massachusetts drivers has been given preliminary approval by the state House of Representatives.

The measure was advanced on Tuesday without debate. It still has several more hurdles to clear including another House vote and passage in the Senate.

The bill would ban drivers from holding cellphones, except in emergency situations. They could use their phones with hands-free technology, such as Bluetooth.

The neighboring states of New Hampshire, Vermont, Connecticut and New York already have hands-free laws in place.

Massachusetts has banned texting while driving and all cellphone use by drivers under the age of 18 since 2010.