Utah lawmakers want hand-held cell phone ban while driving

It’s already against the law to text and drive in Utah.  Now lawmakers want to go one step further to make it illegal to hold your cell phone for any reason while driving.

Representative Carol Spackman Moss (D-Holladay) has introduced a bill that has been proposed for several years in a row but failed to pass the full legislature.  Moss says this version would perhaps have a better chance because the fine would be lower.  She says punishment for a first offense would be an infraction versus a misdemeanor.

“It’s just something that’s long overdue.  I’m hoping I’ll have the support this year because this is something the public wants,” says Moss.

The next legislative session begins January 27, 2020.