Iowa hands-free driving bill goes into law

Apr 03, 2025

Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds has signed a long-awaited hands-free driving bill into law.

The law bans cellphones and other devices from being used while driving unless they are in hands-free mode.

Iowa families who have lost loved ones to distracted drivers gathered for the signing ceremony. Kristi Castenson, who lost her husband Dave and mother-in-law Velma in a crash a decade ago in Dayton, was among those present.

"This year, when we got the phone call, I was speechless. I mean, I was just so excited and happy, and it's just I know Dave smiles down on us, and so is Velma. We did it," said Castenson.

The new hands-free cellphone law goes into effect July 1. There will be a six-month period when law enforcement will hand out warning tickets. Starting Jan. 1, 2026, the fines will be $100.

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