Bill Would Make Talking On Phone While Driving Illegal In North Carolina

If you're on the phone while driving your car, you may need to wrap up that conversation. Talking on the phone in the driver's seat may soon be illegal in North Carolina.

House Bill 144 proposes a $100 fine for people convicted of talking on their phone while driving.

The News and Observer reports the bill is being co-sponsored by three Republicans and one Democrat, and would take effect in 2020 if passed.

The legislation does include some exceptions. Motorists would be allowed to talk while parked. And drivers over 18 could use a cell phone if it's mounted in a way that allows for initiating, answering, or ending a call with a single button.

North Carolina is already one of 47 states that have banned texting while driving. It would be the 17th state to pass talking-while-driving legislation.

Another driving-related bill is making its way through the legislature.

The state Senate on Thursday approved increased penalties for motorists who don't change lanes or slow down when approaching emergency vehicles' flashing lights.