Senate advances traffic measures

Bills would ban cell phones, OK speed cameras

Under the legislation, driving while using a hand-held cell phone or wireless communication device would be a secondary offense, meaning that motorists could be cited for violating the law only if they are pulled over for another traffic offense. The fine for a first offense would be $50. Drivers could still use cell phones if they are equipped with hands-free accessories.

Proponents hope Senate action on the cell phone ban will encourage the House to pass the restriction as well. But a similar bill has not been filed in the House this year, and it is unclear how the measure will fare in that chamber.

The Senate voted 26-21 to approve the speed camera bill, while the House began debate on a companion measure yesterday. The bill would allow state and local law enforcement agencies to use speed cameras on streets with speed limits up to 45 mph, in school zones and near highway construction zones.

Under the Senate version, drivers exceeding posted speed limits by 12 mph or more could be issued a ticket, up from the 10 mph originally proposed. The lawmakers also lowered the proposed fine to $40 from $75, with some saying the purpose of speed cameras should be to improve safety, not raise revenue.

The House began debate yesterday.

"We believe this is an encroachment upon our civil liberties," said Del. Michael D. Smigiel Sr., a Cecil County Republican who offered an amendment to carve out Cecil, Queen Anne's, Kent and Caroline counties from the legislation. Speed-monitoring systems "are the proverbial camel's nose in the tent," he said.

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Sun reporter Gadi Dechter contributed to this article.