A bill that would ban the use of hand-held cell phones while driving received preliminary approval from the House of Delegates thiks morning.

House Speaker Michael E. Busch said the measure isw on the schedule for a final vote tomorrow. The approval, which came without debate or proposed amendments, follows last night's unanimous approval of the measure in the House Environmental Matters Committee.

The bill would make use of an hand-held phone a violation punishable by a $40 for a first offense if the vewhicle is in motion. The legislation makes the violation a secondary offense, meaning a police officer couldn't stop a motorist unless the driver is otherwise breaking the law.