HONOLULU -- Mayor Mufi Hannemann signed into law Hawaii's first ban on the use of electronic devices by drivers.

The law, which takes effect July 1, prohibits drivers from using cell phones without a hands-free device. It also prohibits text messaging, the use of laptop computers, e-mailing and electronic game playing

Violators will face fines from $15 to $100.

“This historic and comprehensive legislation was carefully crafted to help improve public safety on our streets and highways,” Hannemann said. “Our intent is to ensure drivers keep their attention focused on the road, where it belongs. We all must be more careful and more considerate of other drivers and of pedestrians, especially the elderly, children and the disabled.”

The measure exempts emergency responders who are performing official duties and also makes an exception for two-way radios used by people for work-related duties, such as taxi drivers.

The City Council approved the measure on April 24.

Hannemann had vetoed an earlier measure that would have prohibited only text messaging and game-playing by drivers. Police and prosecutors had determined that such a narrow ban would be very difficult to enforce.