Allentown driver cell-phone ban starts March 19

ALLENTOWN - Mayor Ed Pawlowski yesterday signed a bill banning motorists from using handheld cell phones while driving in the city.

The law goes into effect March 19, but police will issue written warnings for the first month.

Allentown's City Council unanimously approved the measure last week. Offenders may be fined $150 to $300, and a violation will be a primary traffic offense, meaning police can use it as a reason to pull over a motorist.

Skateboarders, in-line skaters, and bicyclists also will be barred from using cell phones while riding. - AP