Oahu gets state's first ban on driving with cell phones

HONOLULU — It will be illegal to use a hand-held cell phone while driving on Oahu from in July,

Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann on Thursday signed into law Hawaii's first ban on the use of electronic devices by drivers.

The measure allows motorists to use handsfree mobile phones.

But it prohibits text messaging, the use of laptop computers, e-mailing and electric games while driving if the person at the wheel has a hand-held device.

Violators will be subject to fines, the state District Court will determine fines.