Lawmakers Debate Ban on Cellphones for Teen Drivers

BOISE -- The House Transportation Committee debated a bill Tuesday that would restrict cell phone use for some teen drivers. However, the idea was met with some opposition from House representatives. News Channel Seven reports House bill 155 would prohibit teen drivers from using a cell phone during the six-month supervised instruction permit.

Just last year, the legislature passed a law that banned texting while driving and during Tuesday’s afternoon transportation hearing, lawmakers voiced concern over the two bills looking too similar. Chairman Representative Joe Palmer voted against HB 155 saying those supervising the teen driver should not be allowing a cell phone in the hands of that permitted driver.

AAA Oregon/Idaho spokesman Dave Carlson presented the bill to committee and said the purpose is to limit dangerous distractions for Idaho's youngest drivers, by instilling at a young age that a cell phone and driving don't mix. Carlson likened the issue of distracted driving to what lawmakers were dealing with 30 years ago when they were making laws to stop drinking and driving. Via www.ktvb.com