This Just In: California Governor Bars Cellphone Use By Teen Drivers

According to an article at the Los Angeles Times, California Governator Arnold Schwarzenegger has signed legislation that will prohibit Californians under 18 from using cellphones, text message devices, and laptop computers while driving.

The new law, which will take effect July 1, 2008, is meant to address the large number of traffic accidents resulting in deaths and injuries, Schwarzenegger said during a signing ceremony at Sequoia High School in Redwood City, adding "This is to eliminate a major distraction for our young, inexperienced drivers and to make our roadways safer for everybody."

As the parent of two teenage daughters, the Governator has already enacted his own cellphone ban in their home, saying "I told my daughters: 'I give you the car. I give you the cellphone, but if I see you one time using both at the same time, both of them are gone.' " Schwarzenegger added, " 'The car will be gone for a long time and the phone will be gone for a long time. You go to school with the bus.' They know that."