A bill in Maine to get tough with people trying to drive while brushing their hair, eating fast food or talking on a cell phone is dead for the year.

The Legislature's joint transportation committee rejected the bill May 13.

LD836, sponsored by Rep. Thomas Murphy, R-Kennebunk, would outlaw "distracted driving," which the bill defines as any activity that interferes with the safe operation of a motor vehicle.

Under the proposal, distracted driving would include such activities as eating, grooming or chatting on a cell phone while driving.

The infraction would be a secondary offense, meaning police could only ticket drivers if pulled over for some other offense.