MBTA Cell Phone Ban Goes Into Effect Monday

Effective May 18, 2009 (that's tomorrow), MBTA drivers cannot use a cellular phone or electronic device while on duty. If caught doing so, they will receive a 30-day suspension with recommendation for discharge (not white or lumpy, we hope). Just carrying a phone can result in a 10-day suspension on the first offense and a 30-day suspension with the requisite discharge recommendation on the second offense. The new policy is in part the result of a texting-caused crash that injured 49 people and resulted in the culpable driver being fired. The MBTA drivers' union is displeased with the new policy and has filed a protest. For now, T drivers, be warned: electronics are not part of your uniform. As though they once were?