Dec 3, 2007 4:12 pm US/Central
Use Of Cell Phones Illegal In HP School Zones
HIGHLAND PARK (CBS 11 / TXA 21) ―
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Highland Park's cell phone ban in school zones is believed to be the first of its kind in Texas.
The ban started Monday, and Highland Park police say they have already ticketed eight people for breaking the law. Each ticket costs $75.
"I think it's a pretty smart idea to do it in the school zones. I don't know how easy it will be to be to enforce, but it's worth a try," said Highland Park resident Mark Stein. "I think the hard part is getting the word out to people that this is the law now."
The Highland Park Town Council unanimously passed a ban on cell phones three weeks ago. The law prevents drivers from talking, dialing and texting while passing through school zones from 7:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
"We want our kids to be safe, and we want the people that are jogging and exercising to be safe as well," said Highland Park resident Dr. Mary Kyprianou.
The town council said it may expand the ban in the next six months to all of Highland Park.
While some residents say they will also support a citywide ban, the law is still drawing mixed reviews from neighbors.
"It's an inconvenience to me, but it's probably a good idea," said Highland Park resident Ken Dawkins.
Neighboring University Park is considering a similar cell phone ban. That city council will take up the debate this Tuesday.
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