Hunter
01/28/20
Iowa legislators are moving forward on a bill that would ban motorists from using hand-held electronic devices while behind the wheel.
Drivers currently can be fined for texting while driving, but the measure would expand that to prohibit drivers from using smartphones or any device that they can hold in their hand while operating a motor vehicle.
The Cedar Rapids Gazette reports that drivers would be able to use devices if they’re hands-free or otherwise integrated into their vehicles. They could use the devices, provided they’re in a stopped vehicle not on the travel portion of a street or highway without being ticketed.
A state Department of Public Safety representative suggested a six month grace period where drivers would be warned instead of ticketed.
Both the House and Senate are working on versions of the bill. 19 states, Washington DC and three US territories have already barred handheld devices while driving.