Esky Considering Cell Phone Ban While Driving

Escanaba is thinking of drawing up cell phone laws for drivers.

The issue came up at a City Council work session last night, with public safety listed as the reason.

The City Council is talking about a ban on texting and handheld calls behind the wheel, but allowing hands-free use.

City Manager Jim O’Toole said he’d get back to the council after looking into the issue further.

Michigan is one of 6 states that don’t have any state restrictions on cell phone use while driving but allow local communities to set their own laws if they choose.

6 other states, including California and New York, ban their drivers from handheld cell phone use.