Hands-free rule proposed

SANDPOINT — The city is contemplating an ordinance which would require motorists and cyclists to use hands-free devices while using a cellular phone within city limits.

The proposed ordinance would ban text messaging altogether while driving or operating a human-powered vehicle.

The city’s Administrative Committee is considering the ordinance at its 5:30 p.m. meeting on Wednesday at City Hall.

“Every time I drive downtown or I’m walking downtown I see people using cell phones who are driving who aren’t paying attention to what they’re doing. Given the renewed safety concerns in our community, it’s time to ban the use of cell phones except for hands-free use in,” said Councilwoman Helen Newton, who is proposing the ordinance.

Under the ordinance, motorists and cyclists under way would have to use their speakerphone or a hands-free device.

Teens under the age of 18 and those with learner’s permits would be forbidden from using their phones altogether. School bus drivers would be prohibited from using their phone unless it’s an emergency call.

The ordinance would not prohibit people from making 911 or calls to authorities during an emergency. It would not apply to those in authorized emergency vehicles or those in vehicles operating on private property.

Those who violate the ordinance, if it’s adopted, could be charged with an infraction and fined $100.

Newton proposes installing signs at the entrances to town to advise visitors of the prohibition.

“We have to do everything we can to promote safety and I think this is a big step in that direction,” said Newton.