Troy Patch Readers Discuss New Teen Cell Phone Law

A new Michigan law, known as "Kelsey's Law" which prohibits teen drivers from using a cell phone while driving a car, goes into to effect Thursday.

According to the bill signed into law earlier this year, if any driver with a temporary drivers permit or a level 1 or 2 graduated license - meaning any driver under the age of 17 - is stopped for a moving violation, he or she could be cited with a civil infraction for using a cell phone. 

Because the violation is a civil infraction, local municipalities will determine the fine.

The legislation was named for a 17-year-old Sault Ste. Marie girl who died in a car crash in 2010 while she was using her cell phone.

scrutinized the local distracted driving ordinance, which was implemented in 2010, and split in an affirmative vote to amend it. What was difficult for the Troy Police to enforce, according to one council member, were then-forbidden actions considered "too subjective" including eating, reading, and writing.

Troy Police Chief Gary Mayer said at the time that police have a policy not to issue citations under the ordinance unless there is another violation, comparing the ordinance to a "tool in the police officer's belt."

Readers of the Troy Facebook page were asked about their thoughts of law. Here are some of the responses:

• Catherine Cooper Bauer: Anyone of any age should not be distracted while driving
• Kim Kuras Yanchyshyn: There are still some in Troy that want it repealed!
• Christine Martin: no distracted driving for any reason!!
• Linda Birdwell-Taipala: The state law only applies to teens. It should be for all ages, the same as Troys Ordinance.

Share your thoughts in the comments section below.

Jen Anesi contributed to this report.