Minnesota signs first smartphone 'kill switch' law

Minnesota signed the first law in the U.S. that requires all smartphones to include a "kill swtich" in an attempt to cut back on theft.

Governor Mark Dayton signed the bill into law Wednesday. If a smartphone is lost or stolen, the "kill switch" would remotely disable the phone, making it useless for potential thieves.

"This law will help combat the growing number of violent cell phone thefts in Minnesota," said Dayton in a statement.

Nearly 1 in 3 robberies in the U.S. involved a cell phone, according to Federal Communications Commission data cited by the governor's office.

Smartphone makers have already implemented features that allow users to remotely wipe their devices in the event of loss or theft. Apple's Find My Phone includes an Activation Lock that requires the original Apple ID and password to access, as well as a Remote Wipe to erase all content. Android smartphones include the Device Manager so users can remotely lock and erase their devices.

Jamie Hastings, vice president for external and state affairs at CTIA-The Wireless Association, called Minnesota's law unnecessary in light of steps the industry has taken. Besides the deactivation technology its members are pursuing, Hastings in a statement cited stolen phones databases, consumer education campaigns and anti-theft apps. She said state-by-state technology mandates would ultimately stifle innovation.

Contributing: Associated Press