The Yukon's politicians have started working towards a ban on using cellphones while driving, but it will likely take a while before any legislation takes effect.

Nearly all MLAs voted Wednesday in favour of a motion by Yukon Party MLA Steve Nordick, who called for amendments to the Motor Vehicles Act prohibiting the use of cellphones and "similar electronic devices" while driving.

Liberal MLA Darius Elias, who introduced a similar motion in October, said the latest cellphones and smartphones have become more like small computers, making them major hazards on the roads.

"Canada has been slow compared to other countries when it comes to implementing the safety standard," Elias said in the legislature.

"I don't want the Yukon to be the last jurisdiction in Canada to protect its citizens in this way, and I don't want any Yukoners to be added to the casualty statistics."

Ban needed only in city: MLA

The only member to vote against the motion was Independent MLA Brad Cathers, who suggested a cellphone ban may only be needed in the capital city of Whitehorse.

Cathers said the government should wait to see if similar legislation in other Canadian jurisdictions make a difference.

In late October, Ontario became the latest jurisdiction to make it illegal for drivers to use hand-held cellphones on the road.

Newfoundland and Labrador became the first province to pass such a ban in 2003, while Quebec and Nova Scotia both moved earlier this year to stop drivers from using hand-held cellphones.

Similar legislation was introduced in British Columbia in October. If it passes, the changes could take effect in January.

Public consultations needed

The first step towards passing a ban into law would be to consult with Yukoners, MLAs say.

The government will also have to decide on issues such as who can be exempt from a ban — such as police and emergency responders — and whether the legislation should be in place in all roads in the territory.

Highways Miniser Archie Lang said his department will soon kick off an information campaign designed to educate drivers about distractions and other hazards.

But Lang noted that the issue of driving distractions extend far beyond using cellphones behind the wheel.

Citing the results of an international survey, Lang said more drivers admit to talking to passengers or eating and drinking while driving than talking on a cellphone while driving.