ETOBICOKE, Ontario (Aug. 8, 2008) — Taking a lead from many states, the Ontario government will introduce a bill this fall to prohibit drivers from using cell phones “and other electronic distractions” when operating a vehicle, a law supported by the Ontario School Bus Association.

The news came months after the OSBA pro-actively adopted policy recommending that private school bus companies prohibit their drivers from using cell phones and other personal, portable electronic devices while transporting students in a school bus or any other vehicle. This includes when the bus is parked during student loading and unloading and idling. The exemption would be in case of an emergency.

OSBA added that it will consult with the Ministry of Transportation during development of the legislation, as it said banning two-way radios and other emergency, safety and bus passenger security devices could be detrimental to school bus operations.

NAPT, NASDPTS and NSTA adopted a similar school bus driver cell phone ban last year following a recommendation from the National Transportation Safety Board. Dozens of states have since passed their own driver-cell phone prohibitions.