House votes to ban drivers under 18 from using cellphones

Drivers under age 18 would be prohibited from using cellphones except for emergencies under a bill advancing in Michigan's Legislature.

The state now bars drivers with a learner's or intermediate permit from using a phone while operating a motor vehicle.

The legislation cleared the House on Wednesday.

The measure would also eliminate an exception that lets those with the graduated level one and two licenses use a voice-activated phone system in the car.

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer supports the bill and is urging the Senate to pass it after it returns to session in January.