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OKLAHOMA CITY — Using a cellular phone while driving in a work zone or school zone would be illegal under a measure that passed out of a legislative committee Thursday.

The Senate Public Safety Committee passed Senate Bill 132, by Sen. J.J. Dossett, D-Owasso, by a vote of 9-1. The measure heads to the Senate floor for consideration.

The measure contains exceptions for hands-free devices.

The legislation would subject violators to a fine of not more than $2,000 when it involves an accident and a $5,000 fine for an accident involving a death.

Dossett said the bill has been changed many times, adding that he is seeking input.

The goal is to curb distracted driving, he said.

Dossett said distracted driving seems to be a problem, especially among young people.

“More tend to do this more than they should,” he said. “They put everyone in danger. I think something like this would encourage them to do the right thing.”