Utah Legislature: Senate passes bill would ban teens talking on cell phones while driving

SALT LAKE CITY — The Senate gave its final approval Wednesday to a bill that would ban teens from using cell phones while driving.

SB113 passed despite nay votes from several Senate leaders, including Senate President Michael Waddoups, R-Taylorsville, and Majority Leader Scott Jenkins, R-Plain City.

The bill's sponsor, Sen. Ross Romero, D-Salt Lake, said statistics show the law could reduce the number and severity of car accidents across the state.

"This is making sure our youngest drivers are paying attention," he said.

Romero's proposal bans teens younger than 18 from using cell phones behind the wheel but provides exemptions for emergencies. Under the amended bill, violators would only be cited without accruing points toward losing their licenses.

Despite the Senate's support, Romero is holding the bill for 24 hours to consider changes that could make its passage more likely in the House. He said he is considering making the violation a secondary, rather than primary offense.

— Josh Smith