This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2009, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
A bill that would outlaw texting while driving squeaked through a committee Tuesday.
The heavy penalty imposed by SB149, a class B misdemeanor for first-time offenders, drew concern from several representatives, who considered it excessive. Others said the bill is too narrow in focusing solely on the use of mobile text messaging devices to the exclusion of many other dangerous, distracting activities.
Utah Code already adds a penalty for distracted driving when individuals commit traffic offenses while engaged in distracting activities, including but not limited to texting. Distracted driving also carries a class B misdemeanor charge.
The measure now heads to the full House for debate.
