It appears that California will soon get serious about requiring drivers using cell phones to operate more safely when driving on the state's roadways. Here's a news advisory from the office of State Sen. Joe Simitan, who carried a law requiring drivers to use a hands-free device:

"Governor Schwarzenegger announced today that he will hold a bill signing ceremony in Oakland to sign into law State Senator Joe Simitian's (D-Palo Alto) SB 1613, which will require California drivers who choose to use a cell phone while driving to use a hands-free device. The bill, which will go into effect on July 1, 2008, allows exceptions for drivers calling law enforcement or public safety agencies, as well as emergency services personnel driving authorized vehicles."

The bill signing will be at 11:15 a.m. Friday.