Cleveland transit agency tightens phone ban

CLEVELAND (AP) — Cleveland’s public transit agency says it will fire bus drivers and commuter train operators who carry cell phones or other electronic devices.

A previous policy banned the use of those devices while driving. But an expanded policy announced Monday says that drivers must store their devices on board.

Drivers can be fired on the first offense for carrying a cell phone in a pocket or clipped to a belt.

The policy reflects a growing trend as transit agencies across the nation try to reduce driver distractions.

In March, a Cleveland bus driver was accused of talking on her cell phone and fatally striking a pedestrian in a crosswalk. The driver was fired and has been charged with aggravated vehicular homicide.