By CRISTINA SILVA
Associated Press
PHOENIX (AP) - Arizona lawmakers are going after teenage drivers who use wireless devices.
A Senate committee advanced a bill Wednesday seeking to prohibit teenagers from using cell phones and other wireless devices while they have their learner's permit and during the first six months of their license.
The bill moved forward in a 3-1 vote. Republican Sen. Gail Griffin says she would not support the ban until other distractions, such as music, are addressed.
Supporters say the ban would protect the state's youngest and most inexperienced drivers.
Under the proposed law, police officers could only stop violators under age 18 if they are also suspected of committing another traffic offense, such as speeding.
The National Safety Council says more than 100,000 crashes per year are linked to drivers reading or sending text messages.
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