SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — A panel of Utah lawmakers has heartily endorsed a resolution declaring pornography a public health crisis. Republican state Sen. Todd Weiler, a Mormon, contends that children are being exposed to pornography at an earlier age and that viewing the material leads to relationship problems.

Republicans and one Democrat on a Utah Senate health committee unanimously agreed with Weiler on Friday and approved his resolution. Weiler's points echo arguments made around the county in a renewed push led by conservative and religious groups as porn becomes more accessible via smartphones and tablets.

May agree kids can view porn more easily these days, but little research exists to show the effects. Defenders of pornography say critics are spouting hyperbole. Dr. Carl Shubs, a California psychologist, says pornography can be a healthy sexual outlet for people. He says calling it a public health crisis is off base.

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