HARRISBURG -- The state House voted 189 to 6 today to give final approval to new legislation that would prohibit motorists from using hand-held cell phones and sending text messages while behind the wheel.

The bill now goes to the Senate, which could take a few weeks before acting on it.

The two prime legislators behind the bill, Rep.Joe Markosek, D-Monroeville, and Rep. Josh Shapiro, D-Montgomery, said the measure is needed to keep drivers from being distracted and to promote safety on the roads. "We are all one text (message) from eternity," said Mr. Markosek. "Our legislation will help educate folks that responsibility and common sense go hand in hand when operating a 4,000-pound potential battering ram. This legislation is proof that the Legislature does listen to the public outcry" for safer roads.

More details in tomorrow's Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.

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