Under Senate Bill 5037, passed in 2007, the infraction is a secondary offense. People will not be pulled over solely because they are driving while on a hand-held cell phone, but if they are pulled over for swerving or speeding, drivers may receive an additional fine under this law. Another bill passed in 2007, which took effect January 2008, bans cell phone text messaging while driving. Both are secondary offenses and can carry a fine of $124 in addition to a fine for the primary infraction.

Smith said the new laws are intended to minimize driver distractions. She also encourages parents to discuss the law with their teenage drivers.

"I believe this provides an opportunity for us to further discuss with young adults the importance of developing safe driving habits," Smith said.

Although this legislation was passed before she entered office, Smith wants to ensure constituents are prepared for the changes and have enough time to purchase a hands-free device before the law takes effect.

For more information on these laws, contact Smith's district office at (360) 678-3604 or the Washington State Patrol via the Internet at www.wsp.wa.gov.