/ Modified may 18, 2016 8:34 a.m.

Pima County Bans Hand-Held Phone Use When Driving

No texting, either, at risk of $100 fine, $250 if involved in collision.

Cell Phone, Phones

The Pima County Board of Supervisors Tuesday approved a ban on using cell phones and similar devices when driving.

The new ordinance bans the use of handheld electronics while operating a motor vehicle, with some exceptions.

Devices such as cell phones are allowed if the vehicle is on private property or is stationary, or if the driver is an emergency responder or transit vehicle driver.

Those caught violating the law are subject to a fine of $100. The penalty goes $250 if the offender was involved in a collision.

The new rule goes into effect June 16.

The city of Tucson has had a ban on texting when driving for several years.

State Sen. Steve Farley, D-Tucson, has introduced bills to ban texting statewide in several previous legislative sessions, but it has fallen short.

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