SALT LAKE CITY (AP) - Teenagers in Utah would be prohibited from talking on cell phones while driving under a bill tentatively passed by the state Senate.
The Daily Herald of Provo reports that Senate Bill 128 passed 19-9 on the first of two required votes. The final vote is expected Tuesday.
Democratic Minority Leader Ross Romero of Salt Lake City says the law would apply to 16- and 17-year-old drivers, who could be given a $50 ticket. The violation, however, would not go on their driving record.
Romero says he is willing to amend the bill to allow cell phones to be used for music and navigation.
Republican Sen. John Valentine of Orem says the bill is unnecessary because the state already has laws prohibiting drivers from text messaging and distracted driving.
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