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WJFW News

New Cell Phone Law Submitted: 11/01/2012

WISCONSIN - Teens in Wisconsin now have one more reason to put down the cell phone when they get behind the wheel.

The law is written to stop drivers with an instruction permit or probationary license from using their phone, unless it's an emergency.

Sergeant Rich Reichenberger of the State Patrol, says, "Basically it's new drivers. Anyone, if you get your license at the age of 16, it extends out at least until you're 19-years-old. That also effects new drivers to the state who have been on a probationary license in another state. Also, drivers from another country as well."

You can still use the phone if you pull over to the side of the road and turn on your flashers, but the goal is to keep drivers focused on the task at hand, the road, Reichenberger says, "Basically the law is in effect because, as being a new driver, there's a lot of things going on that you have to get used to. Your attention is divided anyway, watching other vehicles and things like that. Adding that cell phone and talking on the cell phone, you get kind of caught up in your conversation."

As a reminder no one of any age or with any license is allowed to text and drive.

Wisconsin ranks among the highest in the nation for fatal accidents involving young people and police hope this will drive us towards zero deaths in Wisconsin.

Story By: Michael Crusan

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 In Other News:
Kemp Street construction pushed back to July 8 Submitted: 06/18/2013

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RHINELANDER - Independence Day always brings a flood of visitors to the Northwoods.

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The city and contractors decided today to start the Kemp Street part of their sewer project during the week of July 8th.

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Eagle River library presents new design Submitted: 06/18/2013

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Rhinelander again welcomes American flag downtown Submitted: 06/18/2013

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RHINELANDER - A huge American flag flying over Rhinelander fills most of us with pride.

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Antigo looks to Langlade Hospital to take over ambulance service Submitted: 06/18/2013

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About half of that is paid by the city and county through taxes... The other half is paid by the user fees.

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Rhinelander Planning Committee makes organizing big events easier Submitted: 06/18/2013

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RHINELANDER - Not many people plan big events.

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Maahs sentenced to six months in jail Submitted: 06/18/2013

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Bradley Maahs was sentenced to six months in jail today. Maahs will also serve more probation time after his stay in jail.

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He pleaded no contest to delivering THC.

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Merrill High School Preserves Mural Paintings Submitted: 06/18/2013

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MERRILL - When students hear the bell ring on the last day of school, they normally don't want to come back until they have to.

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The program started nine years ago.

Thirteen students are painting four foot by six foot scaled designs on the brick walls.

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