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Meridian considering banning hand held cell phones while driving

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MERIDIAN, Idaho — Meridian City leaders are looking at outlawing the use of hand held phones while driving.

A bill forbidding the use of the phones was killed in the last legislative session, but police say they have some real concerns about drivers being distracted by their phones. Police have asked the mayor and council to look at passing an ordinance similar to what's already on the books in cities like Hailey, Ketchum and Pocatello.

Supporters of the possible rule change note hands free cell phone usage would still be allowed. Meridian was one of the first cities in Idaho to ban texting while driving. The city will work on specifics of the ordinance over the next few months and might have the public weigh in.

If it's passed, signs will likely be put up throughout the city telling drivers of the change.