Kansas bills would crack down on cellphone use while driving

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) - Two bills introduced in the Kansas Senate are aimed at reducing distracted driving caused by using cellphones while driving.

One bill would prohibit drivers from holding a phone or other wireless device up to their ear.

The Wichita Eagle reports (https://bit.ly/2ksnPlq ) the Kansas Department of Transportation supports the bill. The department says about 92 people died each year from distracted driving between 2009 and 2014.

A second bill would outlaw using a wireless device in a school zone or construction zone. It makes an exception for using hands-free devices.

Supporters say both bills would reduce distracted driving.

Kansas already prohibits texting or sending e-mails while driving.

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Information from: The Wichita (Kan.) Eagle, https://www.kansas.com