Iowa House Approves Cell Phone Ban for Young Drivers

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By Becky Ogann

Story Created: Mar 8, 2010 at 5:34 PM CST

Story Updated: Mar 8, 2010 at 8:24 PM CST

DES MOINES (AP) - The Iowa House has narrowly voted to ban the state's youngest drivers from any use of cell phones or other hand-held electronic devices.

The bill approved Monday would ban the use of cell phones, either for calls or text messaging, by any 16 or 17 year old while driving.

Rep. Scott Raecker, R-Urbandale, says it's that age group that does the bulk of cell phone calling and text messaging.

The House approved the measure on a 55-41 vote, sending it back to the Senate, which had earlier approved a ban only on texting and e-mailing while driving for everyone.

Rep. Rick Olson, D-Des Moines, says it makes sense to target young people, who are already forced to get special drivers licenses that include restrictions on what they can do.

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