Iowa Senate votes to prohibit motorists from handling a smart phone while driving

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Des Moines, IA-  The Iowa Senate has voted to make it illegal for drivers in the state to use a hand-held smart phone in a moving vehicle.

Radio Iowa reports that drivers under the age of 18 have long been prohibited from using electronic devices, unless the vehicle is stopped and off of the road, but efforts to extend that policy to all drivers have stalled in the legislature for over a decade.

Senator Mark Lofgren of Muscatine says distracted driving has become a major issue.

“Twenty-five years ago, the problem was not as prevalent, but today it is common place and continues to get worse,” he says. “Hindering drivers from messing with their phones by requiring a voice activated or hands free mode will not eliminate all the risks of distraction, but it will define the line not to cross over and, by doing so, will improve safety on our roads.”

If the bill becomes law, drivers ticketed for using a smart phone while driving will be fined $100, with higher penalties if the distracted driving leads to an accident.

The bill passed the Senate on a 47 to 3 vote and now goes to the House for consideration.