Banning cell phone use by young drivers OK'd by Louisiana Legislature

Lawmakers approved legislation prohibiting Drivers 17 and younger from using cell phones and text-messaging devices while driving.

The bill sets a fine of up to $100 for a first violation and up to $250 for subsequent violations. If the driver is involved in an accident while using a cell phone or text-messaging device, the punishment is doubled.

The bill states that a police officer can only ticket someone for the violation if the driver is pulled over for another moving violation such as speeding or running a stop sign.

Lawmakers have sent Jindal two other bills restricting cell phones or text-messaging devices: Senate Bill 137 by Sen. Julie Quinn, R-Metairie, banning the use of text-messaging devices by everyone while driving and the use of cell phones by "novice drivers," those who have a learners or intermediate permit; and Senate Bill 342 by Sen. Dale Erdey, R-Livingston, prohibiting the use of cell phones by any first-time driver, no matter what age, for a one-year period

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