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Lawmakers in Maryland have approved a ban on hand-held cell phone use while driving.
The ban allows drivers to use their hands to turn a phone on or off, but it prohibits drivers from holding cell phones during conversations while driving -- except during emergencies.
Drivers could be fined $40 for first violations under the bill but could only be pulled over if they are committing another offense as well, such as running a red light.
The bill now goes to Governor Martin O'Malley, who plans to sign it. The ban would go into effect on October 1.
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