South Carolina Considers Ban on Cell Phone Use by Teen Drivers

South Carolina senators are considering banning teens under 18 from driving while holding a cell phone to their ear.

A Senate Judiciary subcommittee was set to debate the bill this week.

It is among six bills in the Legislature this year that would bar drivers from text messaging, using a hand-held cell phone, or both.

Last week, a House panel gave initial approval to a bill barring both for drivers of all ages.

The bill proposed by Republican Sen. Thomas Alexander of Walhalla specifically deals with young drivers. A handsfree system would be exempt.

Offenders would be fined up to $50 for the misdemeanor.