Okla. Bill Bans Cell Phone Use By Teen Drivers

A bill that would prevent teenage drivers
from using cell phones while driving has cleared a Senate panel.
The Senate Public Safety Committee on Thursday voted 6-2 for the
bill, which now heads to the full Senate.
The measure prohibits drivers younger than 18 from using any
"hand-held electronic device while operating a motor vehicle,"
except in the case of a life-threatening emergency.
Tulsa Republican Sen. Brian Crain says he hopes the bill will
encourage young motorists to pay more attention to the road and
prevent accidents.
But Oklahoma City Republican Sen. Steve Russell opposed the
measure, saying it could pave the way for the ban to be broadened
to include all drivers forcing Oklahomans to "give up liberty."
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