SPRINGFIELD -- Illinois moved a step closer Wednesday to becoming the 10th state in the nation to ban motorists from using a cell phone while driving.

On a 6-3 vote, the House Transportation Committee signed off on a proposal requiring motorists to put down their phones when they get behind the wheel. Drivers could continue to use a mobile phone if it is switched to a hands-free setting.

"This bill is about safety," said state Rep. John D'Amico, a Chicago Democrat who sponsored the proposal.

Illinois already bans texting while driving and restricts talking on mobile devices when driving through school and construction zones. A federal law bars commercial truck and bus drivers from using cell phones.

In December, the National Traffic Safety Board issued a report calling for a complete ban on cell phone use based on a review of data dating back 10 years. No states currently completely outlaw cell phone use while driving, but the agency said the diversion caused by phone use warrants the change.

Other safety groups also back the ban.

John Ulcycki, vice president of the National Safety Council, said studies in other states have found people reduce their phone use when bans are in effect.