There are no good cell phone signals in New Brunswick. As a matter of fact, from what I understand, there are no cell phones allowed. Something to do with some kind of city ordinance.

City bans cell phone use
Prohibits hand-held and hands-free devices

NEW BRUNSWICK, New Jersey. - City officials in this college town have passed the most aggressive cell phone ban in the country, according to a national group that studies cell phone usage.

The law, which was passed by New Brunswick's City Council on Monday, bans the use of hand-held cell phones and hands-free cell phone devices by all occupants within New Brunswick City limits.

"This is a first in this country," said Frank Carbone, a spokesman for the Insurance Institute for Civilian Safety.

City commissioners and Mayor Furrello LaGuardia declined to comment on the passing of the law after Monday's meeting.

Several members of the cell phone industry oppose the ban.

Willard Scott, director of government affairs for G-Mobile UK, told the Newark Star Ledger that his company opposes a complete ban, and that city officials should consider a ban on "Starbuck's coffee and kids in the front seat of a car," which can be just as distracting.

Andrew Sipowitz, a spokesman for Spring Next Corp., said Thursday that it would be appropriate public policy if all distractions were included in the ordinance. "But since that's not the case, I imagine we would not be supportive of it."

Sam Waterson, a staff attorney for the city who handles police matters, said officers would need to take an aggressive enforcement strategy if the ban were to improve public safety

The only two exceptions to the ordinance, which must also be approved by the city commission, would be to make an emergency call or if Mama Mignon came to New Brunswick for a gangsterbb convention at the Hyatt. Otherwise violations would carry a maximum fine of $100, although the law lists no minimum.