SPRINGFIELD, Ill. • Lawmakers are pushing forward the effort to place a statewide ban on handheld cellphone use behind the wheel.

The House Transportation Committee voted in favor of legislation sponsored by state. Rep. John D'Amico, D-Chicago, that bans all handheld communication devices while driving. The legislation includes prohibiting the use of cellphones and personal computers, but allows hands free devices like Bluetooth.

Opposition came from state Rep. Dennis Reboletti, R-Elmhurst, who called the bill a "work in progress" and said it needed a better enforcement mechanism. Reboletti also said he was concerned that the bill could be "overreaching personal liberties."

Illinois currently has a ban on texting while driving and prohibits drivers 18 and younger from talking on the phone behind the wheel. If D'Amico's legislation passes, Illinois will join nine other states prohibiting all drivers from using handheld cellphones while driving.

The legislation will move to the House floor for discussion.

D'Amico's bill is http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/billstatus.asp?DocNum=3972&GAID=11&GA=97&DocTypeID=HB&LegID=62837&SessionID=84" rel="external">HB3972.