Maryland Governor Signs Order To Ban Cell Phone Use In State Vehicles

Maryland Gov. Martin O'Malley has signed an executive order barring executive branch employees from using handheld cell phones while driving state-owned vehicles.

O'Malley said his action Thursday was part of a new driver safety program. The order comes after the General Assembly adopted a bill banning text-messaging while driving, but rejected curbing cell phone use while driving.

The Baltimore Sun reports that the order exempts handsfree cell phone use and allows law enforcement officers or emergency vehicle drivers to use handheld cell phones.

The order directs the Department of Budget and Management to draft a cell phone policy. The policy will go into effect when the rules are completed.

The order also urges employees to enroll in driver improvement programs.

(May 21, 2009)