A measure in the Mississippi Legislature would prohibit drivers’ use of hand-held cell phones.

The bill, before the House Transportation Committee, would permit only “hands-free” devices in moving vehicles.

The infraction would be a secondary offense, meaning police could ticket drivers only if they were pulled over for some other offense. Violators would be fined $150.

The bill, HB158, sponsored by state Rep. Billy Broomfield, D-Moss Point, would exempt emergency calls.

Only New Jersey and New York have statewide laws restricting cell phone use in vehicles. However, several states have similar measures up for consideration this year.