Cellphone driving ban introduced in N.B.

New Brunswick drivers will no longer be able to use hand-held cellphones, texting devices and portable entertainment devices while operating their vehicles.

Public Safety Minister Robert Trevors introduced the Progressive Conservative government's new driver distraction legislation on Wednesday.

Trevors said the proposed law will prohibit the handling and programming of hand-held cellphones, texting, and looking at hand-held GPS systems.

The bill also prohibits televisions, monitors and DVD players in the driver's visual field.

If drivers are caught on any of those counts, it will cost them three demerit points on their licences and a fine of $172.50.

Drivers will be allowed to talk on their phones if they are being used in a hands-free manner.

The legislation exempts cellphone use by police, fire and ambulance staff while on duty.

It also allows citizens to use cellphones while driving to report an emergency or to call 911.

The ban doesn't affect use of two-way radios by commercial drivers. And ham radio operators are exempt if they're involved with a search and rescue team.

The public safety minister said the new law will help make highways safer by reducing distractions for drivers.

Trevors said there was extensive consultation to make sure the cell ban is enforceable.

The proposed law, which was promised by the Tories during the fall election campaign, will be enacted in early 2011 after a public education campaign.

New Brunswick is one of the last provinces to impose restrictions on the use of cellphones while driving.