New Iowa Hands-Free Law Goes Into Effect July 1st

Law enforcement agencies are giving motorists a heads up that a new hands-free law goes into effect in less than two months in Iowa.

Charles City Police Chief Hugh Anderson says the new law expands enforcement prohibiting the use of handheld cellphones or electronic devices while driving.

Anderson adds that the new hands-free law will make it easier for officers to enforce.

Anderson says the new law still allows you to answer your phone, as long as it’s in “hands-free mode,” is voice-activated, or at the touch of a button.

Anderson says the new law will be inconvenient for a while, but it will make roads safer. The law goes into effect on July 1st, with violators initially receiving warnings. Starting January 1, 2026, violations will come with fines of $100.