The B.C. government has introduced legislation to ban the use of cellphones while behind the wheel, effective January 1, 2010.

Six other provinces already have such legislation in place.

The B.C. government promised in its throne speech last August to restrict cellphone use while driving to create a safer driving and pedestrian environment across the province.

The B.C. Association of Chiefs of Police passed a resolution earlier this year asking for a total ban on cellphone use by drivers, even with hands-free devices.

But while the proposed legislation would ban the use of mobiles while at the wheel, it makes an exception for experienced drivers using hands-free devices.

A complete ban on text messaging will also be imposed.