Iowa Set to Enforce Hands-Free Driving Law and New Fireworks Regulations Starting July 1st

Des Moines, Iowa — A range of new laws will take effect in Iowa starting July 1, aiming to enhance safety and regulate local festivities. Among the most significant changes is the implementation of a hands-free driving law, aimed at reducing distractions while on the road. Under this legislation, drivers are prohibited from using handheld devices. However, voice-activated features will remain legal. Initially, law enforcement will issue warnings to drivers caught violating this rule. Beginning in January, penalties will be imposed, including fines for noncompliance. With Independence Day approaching, a new regulation concerning fireworks will … Read more

April Sees Surge in Hands-Free Violations: 100 Drivers Cited Under New Cell Phone Law

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. — Local law enforcement officials reported that 100 motorists were ticketed in April for breaching the state’s hands-free cell phone law. This initiative aimed to bolster road safety by curbing distracted driving, a significant contributor to traffic accidents. The enforcement campaign, which ran throughout the month, focused on ensuring drivers refrain from using handheld devices while operating vehicles. The California law mandates that drivers either use a hands-free system or safely pull over to use their phones, aiming to reduce instances of distraction that can lead to severe consequences on the road. … Read more

Minnesota State Patrol Clarifies Use of Amateur Radio During Driving; Ensures Safety and Compliance with Hands-Free Laws

Detroit Lakes, MN – Amid growing concerns over distracted driving, many drivers who also serve as trained storm spotters during weather emergencies wonder about the legality of using amateur radio devices while driving. According to state laws, while such devices are crucial during emergencies, they must still be used responsibly to ensure safety on the roads. In Minnesota, devices such as amateur radios, two-way radios, and citizens band (CB) radios are not covered under the hands-free law, which primarily targets the use of devices like smartphones and tablets for sending texts or emails while driving. … Read more

Iowa Nears Adoption of Handsfree Driving Law, Aiming to Enhance Road Safety and Save Lives

CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa – After a seven-year legislative journey, a handsfree driving bill has successfully reached the desk of Gov. Kim Reynolds, signaling a major shift in Iowa’s approach to road safety. This legislative push culminates years of advocacy and debates surrounding the dangers of distracted driving. The bill, having cleared its final hurdle with a passage in the Iowa House on Wednesday, stands on the brink of becoming law. Trooper Bob Conrad of the Iowa State Patrol voiced optimism about the bill’s potential impact. “It’s going to save lives,” Conrad stated, emphasizing the legislation’s … Read more