SPRINGFIELD - Teen motorists who drive and use mobile phones at the same time risk fines under a new law signed Friday.

Gov. Rod Blagojevich signed Senate Bill 210, saying teen drivers, who are younger than 18, will be safer without the distraction.

"We know that cell phones can be distracting, and most of us remember how distracting it can be just to be a teenager. On the roads, that combination can be especially dangerous," said Blagojevich in prepared statement.

Although she wouldn't be affected, Cindy Meyers, 18, of Macon wasn't impressed with the law.

"I think it's stupid. I do it all the time, and I drive fine," Meyers said.

But Meghan Hill, 16, of Forsyth already is abiding by her parents' rules.

"My mom always told me not to (talk on the phone while driving) cause it's distracting. I think it's a good law," said Hill.

Brydon Pugsley, 17, of Decatur takes exception to the age issue.

"I know people older than me that drive worse than I do," Pugsley said.

Violators of the new state law would be slapped with a $75 fine unless they are using the cell phone in an emergency.

State Sen. Dale Righter, R-Mattoon, an opponent, said the legislation is too broad and doesn't make enough exceptions.

"It doesn't provide an exemption for hands-free use," Righter said.

The Illinois State Police is interpreting the new law, which takes effect immediately, as a secondary offense that would likely be enforced after officers witnessed other behavior, such as illegally changing lanes or a broken taillight, said Lt. Lincoln Hampton, a State Police spokesman.

While federal studies show teens are more likely to have accidents than experienced motorists, the state reports that the number of teen road fatalities in 2004 is at the lowest level since 1974. The Illinois Department of Transportation reports that 133 teens were killed in 2004 on state roads.

Other laws also signed by the governor:

n Senate Bill 229 makes drivers 18 and older responsible for making sure all passengers younger than 19 are wearing seat belts. Under the new law, which takes affect Jan. 1, drivers could face a $75 fine, and the passenger not wearing a seat belt could get at $55 ticket.

n House Bill 1565 requires parents make sure children younger than 9 are put in the proper safety restraints. This law takes effect Jan.1.

Matt Adrian can be reached at matt.adrian@;lee.net or 789-0865.