Iowa drivers are now on notice: holding a phone while driving can cost you.
As of Jan. 1, law enforcement across the state is issuing fines under Iowa’s new hands‑free law. The measure, signed last year by Gov. Kim Reynolds, bans all handheld use of electronic devices behind the wheel. The fine starts at $100, but jumps to $500 if a crash causes injury, and $1,000 if it results in a death.
The law was phased in last July with warnings only, giving drivers six months to adjust. State officials say it’s already making a difference. The Iowa Department of Transportation reports 260 traffic deaths in 2025—a near century low, and 97 fewer than the year before.
Buena Vista County Sheriff Kory Elston says enforcement is now straightforward.
Elston says the penalties are clear, but the goal is cultural change.
Cherokee County Sheriff Derek Scott says the law is about saving lives, not writing tickets.
And Scott adds this message for drivers:
Iowa is now the 31st state with a hands‑free law.
Both Scott and Elston emphasize nearly all smartphones can operate hands‑free through voice commands or one‑touch activation. They say the goal is simple: make safe driving the habit, and keep eyes on the road.
