Drivers now have more reason to put down their cellphones, as the state is raising the maximum fine for using a hand-held electronic device behind the wheel. The old maximum fine was $100, but now a first offense will result in a fine ranging from $50 to $150.

The fine for a second offense within 18 months will range from $50 to $200.

A third offense within 18 months results will result in a fine ranging from $50 to $400.

Drivers will also get five points on their license for each violation.

Illegal activities include talking, texting, taking pictures and playing games.

Drivers may still use a hands-free device to make phone calls.

Exceptions will also be made for drivers using their phone to call about an emergency.

Drunk drivers will also face tougher penalties under a new bill going to Governor Andrew Cuomo today.

Cuomo will sign a measure strengthening Leandra’s Law, which makes it a felony to drive drunk with children in the car.

The law also requires anyone convicted of drunk driving to put an ignition interlock in their car.

But a loophole has allowed drunk drivers to get around that by lying about owning a car.

The new bill says convicted drunk drivers will have to state under oath that they do not own a car, and will face perjury charges if they are caught lying.

Drunk drivers who do not install the interlock will also face a minimum one year suspension of their license, up from the current six months.

(Source: NY1)