The traditional Islamic female head covering known as the hijab could soon be recognized by law as a “hands-free” device for using a mobile phone while driving, if a new bill in the Minnesota Legislature passes. The hijab is worn to preserve modesty. Typically, it covers the hair and neck, but not the face.House Bill 50 (HF 50) is officially titled: “Cell phone use prohibited by person operating a vehicle while vehicle is in motion or a part of traffic, traffic stop study required, report required, and money appropriated.” An amendment to the bill singles out the hijab as a hands-free device, acknowledging that some female Muslim drivers may use their hijabs to hold their mobile phones while (mostly) keeping their hands on the steering wheel (emphasis added): (d) “Voice-activated” or “hands-free mode” means an attachment, accessory, application, The amendment was flagged by John Croman, a reporter for local NBC affiliate KARE 11. On Republican, State Rep. Jeremy Munson (R-Lake Crystal), posted a Facebook video blasting the new amendment as “ridiculous.” In the video, he wears a cellphone attached to his face with a necktie. Minnesota Public Radio reported that the amendment was introduced by State Sen. Bobby Joe Champion, DFL-Minneapolis,…