[jon_adler]

In Australia it has been illegal for ages. They have also had mobile (cell) phone cameras for years to penalise drivers. They claim that distracted drivers are as dangerous as drunk drivers. Why is LA only doing this now?

https://www.qld.gov.au/transport/safety/fines/cameras

[vineyardmike]

It's generally illegal in (most?) of the United States to "use your phone" while driving. I think this news is more of a clarification on what "using a phone" means.

[stuckkeys]

Washington state has been doing this for a while also. Phones have to be mounted or you get penalized.