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SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — Utah Senators have unanimously supported a resolution declaring pornography a public health crisis.

Plan sponsor Republican Sen. Todd Weiler of Wood Cross says he is not trying to ban porn. He says he wants to start a national movement so children are protected from it.

The proposal was given preliminary approval. It must still clear a final Senate vote.

Weiler says children are being exposed to pornography at an earlier age and that viewing the images and videos lead to relationship problems.

The resolution echoes an argument being made around the U.S. by conservative religious groups as porn becomes more accessible on smartphones and tablets.

Defenders of pornography say critics are spouting hyperbole.

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