The sponsor of a Louisiana bill that would...

The sponsor of a Louisiana bill that would bar using a cellphone while driving in school zones said he expects the measure to be approved by the House and go to the governor next week. The law would only apply to making calls, sending texts or being on a social networking site during unspecified posted hours. Offenses would carry a fine of up to $175 for the first violation and up to $500 for each subsequent violation. Rep. Jeff Thompson, a Republican, said HB-370 (http://1.usa.gov/1iQ9ZOq) was approved by the Senate Wednesday with an amendment saying signs must signal where the law would apply. The measure had failed in the Senate on Tuesday but was approved with the amendment. The House is now likely to concur with the amendment and pass it, he said Thursday. “When traveling through active school crossing zones distracted children are certain to be present. In those specific limited areas and limited time periods we need drivers to be particularly aware. ... The momentary inconvenience of setting down a phone to get through a school crossing area with kids in the road is worth it,” he said in an email. A spokesman for Republican Gov. Bobby Jindal was not immediately available for comment.