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SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) - The Illinois House has approved a measure that would prohibit using cell phones while driving.

The 64-46 vote Friday moves the bill to the state Senate for consideration. The measure would force drivers to use hands-free devices or use speakerphone features for calls.

Police would be able to stop and ticket drivers holding a cell phone except during emergency situations. Chicago Democrat Rep. John D'Amico (duh-MEE'-koh) says 76 Illinois communities -- including Chicago -- already ban talking on phones and driving.

Opponents say the bill is unfair to individuals with hearing problems and those who cannot afford high-tech phones. D'Amico touted his measure as a public-safety matter.

Texting while driving is already illegal in Illinois.

The Edwardsville man convicted of molesting two young relatives in 2008, will spend the rest of his natural life in prison.

Michael Burgund of Edwardsville told turned himself into police and said he assaulted the girls, aged two and three in 2011, but later withdrew that confession. This was the mandatory minimum penalty based on the number and types of charges Burgund faced.

UPDATE:
Joseph Wambach has been charged for exploding a device outside of South County business. Earlier:
An explosion rocked a South County neighborhood this week. St. Louis County police now say they have a suspect in custody.

Police responded to a blast on Tesson Ferry in Sappington Wednesday night after people reported damaged. The suspect allegedly placed the explosive device outside of an Avon store, then walked into a nearby bar.

Police say the man resisted arrest, but was taken into custody. No motive has been announced.