Cell Phone Ban for Teen Drivers Advances in Senate

02.10.2010 by Whittney Evans

(KCPW News) Last year, the state legislature banned texting while driving. And this year, one lawmaker hopes to prevent teenagers from talking on cell phones while behind the wheel. Senate Minority Whip Ross Romero says teens have told him they support banning cell phone use while driving because they experience many of the accidents and fatalities.

“This bill is meant to again be specific as to young drivers have them be focused on driving and operating a motor vehicle before they’re allowed the introduction of the additional distraction of a cell phone,” he said.

Romero’s bill would slap teens with an infraction if they’re caught talking on a cell phone while driving. And if a teen is involved in an accident caused by cell phone use, it’s a Class C misdemeanor.

Republican Senator David Hinkins was the only lawmaker to vote against the bill in committee yesterday. He believes the law won’t keep kids from using their cell phones in the car.

“I’m afraid it’s going to start pushing them more to texting instead of talking on their phones. They’re going to communicate; I think one way or another. I’d rather see them talking on the phone than texting on the phone, just because instead of being four times more dangerous, I think it’s 20 times more dangerous texting,” said Hinkins.

Romero’s bill does allow for exceptions:  teens would be able to use a cell phone during a medical emergency or when reporting a safety hazard or criminal activity.  It now moves to the Senate floor for consideration.