Utah House rejects hands-free driving bill after lengthy floor debate

The Utah House on Feb. 25 voted down House Bill 13, a measure that would have required drivers to use hands-free devices when using a phone behind the wheel.

Sponsor Representative Carol Moss framed the bill as an incremental step to reduce cell-phone-related crashes, citing endorsements from Utah Highway Patrol, police chiefs and safety groups and a reported crash reduction in other states that enacted hands-free laws. “We've done it. Seat belts are a good example of that,” she said while urging members to support the measure.

Opponents raised questions over data and enforcement. Representative Dawe argued studies directly comparing handheld and hands-free use show “absolutely no difference in the level of distraction,” and warned the bill would create more fines without changing behavior. Representative Robertson cited national statistics showing only a small share of fatal crashes are attributable specifically to cell-phone use.

Members also debated penalties and equity. Questions were raised about people who cannot afford hands-free systems and whether the requirement would be practical for drivers who rely on phone navigation without wireless car integration.

Representative Moss reiterated that the bill is intended as an enforcement tool supported by education and that judges would retain sentencing discretion for violations. After extended discussion and multiple question-and-answer exchanges, the House voted to reject HB 13 by a 32–41 margin; the bill was sent to staff for filing.

Next steps: with the House vote to file the measure, HB 13 will not advance this session unless reintroduced or revived via procedural mechanisms.