The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has voted to add to its annual list of most-wanted safety recommendations a ban on new drivers' use of any wireless communication devices.

Stated the board's acting chairman, Mark Rosenker, "Learning how to drive while distracted is definitely a recipe for disaster." The NTSB only has the power to make recommendations, but it often successfully lobbies for changes it considers important.

Eleven states and the District of Columbia currently restrict cell- phone use among novice drivers, and some ban handheld cell phones for all drivers. Among those with restrictions are Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Tennessee, and Texas.

The move by the NTSB was applauded by the Governors Highway Safety Association.