
Iowa Bill Will Make All Electronics Illegal While Driving Unless ‘Hands Free’
Iowa is taking significant steps to enhance road safety with the introduction of Senate File 22 (SF 22), a bill aimed at strengthening regulations on the use of cell phones and ALL electronic devices while driving. Let's delve into the current laws, the proposed changes, the anticipated timeline, and how these new rules would be enforced.
As it currently stands, Iowa law prohibits texting while driving but allows drivers to use handheld devices for other purposes, such as making calls or using GPS. This partial restriction has been challenging to enforce, as it's difficult for law enforcement officers to determine whether a driver is texting or engaging in another permitted activity. Here's where the changes come in...
Proposed Changes Under Senate File 22
Senate File 22 seeks to implement a more comprehensive approach by banning the use of handheld electronic devices entirely while driving. Under this bill, drivers would be required to use hands-free or voice-operated options if they need to use their devices on the road. This change aims to reduce distractions and improve overall road safety. By the way, this new law encompasses ALL electronics. From your mp3 player to your tablet, "any device powered by electricity/battery that can send or receive messages, display images, or play audio or video." If you're holding it, you would be violating state law.
The option on the left is hands-free. The option on the right is technically not hands free.
If SF 22 is passed by the Iowa Legislature and signed into law by the Governor, it is slated to go into effect on July 1st, 2025. However, until January 1st, 2026, officers will be told to issue warning memoranda instead of citations. This timeline provides a window for public education and for drivers to adapt to the new requirements expected of them. If you need to use your phone plan ahead or pull over, that simple.

To enforce the new hands-free requirement, law enforcement officers would be authorized to stop drivers solely for holding a device while driving, making it a primary offense. This is a shift from the current law, where texting while driving is a secondary offense, meaning drivers can only be cited if stopped for another violation. The change to a primary offense is intended to enhance the effectiveness of the law and deter distracted driving.
By the way, the new law means you may not use your electronic at a stop light. The bill states, "unless the vehicle is completely stopped AND off the traveled portion of the roadway." That means if you have to make an urgent call or text, you need to pull off the road to do so, or you risk being pulled over and given a moving violation.
This would be a ticketed offense.
Beyond the hands-free mandate, SF 22 includes provisions for public awareness campaigns to educate drivers about the dangers of distracted driving and the specifics of the new law. It also outlines penalties for violations, which may include fines ($45 to $100) and, for repeat offenders, points against their driving records and possible license suspension. Additionally, enhanced penalties will occur if the use of said electronic caused an accident that led to serious injury or death.
The introduction of Senate File 22 represents a proactive effort by Iowa lawmakers to address the risks associated with distracted driving. By expanding the restrictions to all electronic device use and enhancing enforcement mechanisms, the bill aims to make Iowa's roads safer for everyone.
Best scenic drives in Iowa
Gallery Credit: Stacker
See the Must-Drive Roads in Every State
Gallery Credit: Sarah Jones
More From Eagle 102.3








