ST.PAUL, Minn. (KFGO AM) -- Minnesota will have the nation's first law requiring smart phones and tablets to have a remote shut-off device that deters theft.
People who report a "Kill Switch" equipped smart phone lost or stolen, can disable it and wipe it clean by contacting their cell phone carrier.
The bill also stops retailers from paying cash for used devices and requires them to keep records on those transactions.
The measure takes effect next year, but advocates are hoping the wireless industry adopts the technology much sooner.
Representative Joe Atkins describes the law as a vaccine for the epidemic of theft of smart phones.