Ontario has moved a step closer to ordering a ban on the use of hand-held cellphones by drivers.

A private member's bill on the issue received approval in principle by the Ontario legislature Thursday. The bill was introduced by Conservative backbencher John O'Toole.

If the bill passes, drivers could be fined if they're caught talking on a cellphone while behind the wheel. The bill would permit hands-free cellphones, and police, fire and ambulance workers, as well as drivers reporting emergencies would be exempt.

Ontario Transportation Minister Norm Sterling suggested he is not yet convinced. "I'm back and forth on it," he said. "I want to hear what the research is."

Bills introduced by backbenchers rarely become law and it's unlikely this one will either. Nevertheless, this bill will now go to a legislature committee for further study.

O'Toole says he's pleased the legislature has acknowledged the merits of the bill and the dangers of cellphones in cars.

"I am pleased that the legislature has acknowledged the dangers of driver distraction by voting in favour," said O'Toole. "The purpose (of my bill) is to make Ontario roadways safer."

A recent coroner's jury inquest in Ontario concluded that the province should completely ban cellphone use while driving.

The inquest looked at the deaths of Richard Schewe, 31, and his two-year-old daughter, Mikaela. Both were killed after their vehicle was hit by a train at a railroad crossing in Pickering, Ont. The inquest heard that Schewe was talking on his cellphone at the time and didn't notice the railway's warning lights and signals.

Some studies released by insurance companies have shown that the simple act of driving and talking -- whether it's on a hand-held cellphone or with a head-set -- distracts drivers' minds as much as their hands.

A full 22 countries have restricted cellphone use in cars, including Britain, Australia, and Japan. Newfoundland has introduced a law to ban mobile phones in cars, and several other provinces are studying the issue.