Most high-profile bills being discussed during the current Iowa Legislative session have proven contentious, but one bill that’s currently in a Senate subcommittee that is expected to pass with relatively little opposition is what’s being called the “Hands-Free Bill.”

Senate File 76 would outlaw the use of cell phones in any matter while the user is driving in the state. In 2017, the legislature passed a law that makes texting while driving a primary offense that officers can pull motorists over for, though it’s been a difficult law to enforce. Under the new law, only hands-free devices would be allowed while driving, so anyone caught driving with a cell phone in their hand could be pulled over and cited.

Perry Police Chief Eric Vaughn says this type of bill is something law enforcement has been requesting for several years, and he’s happy to hear it could become a reality this session. “You know, I kind of like this bill! I think we’ve had this discussion before and we were talking about enforcement of texting and driving. It makes it really difficult for the enforcement, plus people could be making phone calls or doing other things. You know they’re distracting them even while driving. I think it’s a great thing, it would make enforcement much easier also.”

SF 76 is currently in subcommittee, and legislators are hoping it makes it to the floor before the first funnel deadline on March 8th. To learn more about the current legislative session, listen to our weekly update every Monday on the Perry Fareway Let’s Talk Dallas County program. To hear more from Vaughn, listen to today’s program.