Kansas has approved its first restriction on cell phone use; Drivers without a full license cannot use cell phones or texting devices.
The new restriction HB 2143 was approved by the Kansas Senate and House, and then signed in late March by former governor Kathleen Sebelius. Another bill, HB 2132, only prohibited texting while driving. HB 2132, though, has not been passed yet, but has been regarded as a better bill since it treats minors and adults as equals.
Ten states and the District of Columbia all outlaw texting while driving. The only difference is that these ten states outlaw texting by people of all ages, not just adults. Another seven states have passed the bill to outlaw texting while driving, but it is not yet enacted. Eight states have also passed a bill that outlaws texting by inexperienced drivers.
The law was passed in hopes of safer roads, and less injuries and deaths due to driving.
Lucas Gaxiola, 10, said, “I think it will be good, less car crashes and hopefully safer roads.”
 The bill will take effect starting January 1, 2010, and will be enforced with a $60 fine if anyone is caught breaking it.