PHOENIX β Arizona may be on the verge of no longer being one of only two states in the country that has no restrictions on motorists using their cell phones. But just barely.
Without debate, the state House gave preliminary approval Wednesday to legislation that would make it illegal for teens with a learnerβs permit, or within the first six months of driving, to use a cell phone while driving.
But SB 1080 ties the hands of police, prohibiting them from citing new teen drivers solely because they are seen texting or talking on a cell phone. They could be issued a ticket for that only if pulled over for some other reason, such as speeding.
The minimal nature of the measure does not guarantee it will become law. It still requires a final roll-call vote before going to the governor.
And foes are lining up, in two areas of opposition.
One goes to the contention the measure will turn Arizona into a βnanny state,β telling people whatβs best for them. Those arguments proved successful in the past, as when lawmakers voted in 1976 to repeal laws requiring motorcyclists to wear helmets.
The other concern for some lawmakers is that once Arizona imposes any limits on cell phone use, it paves the way for more comprehensive restrictions.
AAA says 46 states ban text messaging by any motorists. Texas and Missouri do not, but both do bar teens from using cell phones while driving. That leaves Arizona and Montana with no restrictions.
However, local jurisdictions including Tucson, Oro Valley and Pima County all have various rules prohibiting cell-phone use while driving.
