It could be illegal to hold a cellphone to your ear while you are driving in Saskatchewan — possibly as soon as New Year's Day.

On Thursday, the Saskatchewan government introduced cellphone legislation it had been promising for several weeks.

The law would ban drivers from talking, texting and web surfing on hand-held cellphones.

There will be different rules for different drivers, however.

Experienced drivers will be allowed to use "hands-free" phones behind the wheel, while new drivers — those in the Graduated Driver's Licensing Program — cannot use cellphones of any kind.

The penalty for breaking the new law will be $280 and four demerit points. Accumulating demerit points can make it more expensive for drivers to renew their insurance.

Drivers making emergency 911 calls will be exempt.

The province has estimated that driver distraction is a factor in 25 per cent of all reported vehicle crashes.