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Hands-Free Driving Law Praised by Local Peace Officers
State of Iowa reports historic drop in traffic deaths last year.
Southeast Iowa Union offers audio versions of articles using Instaread. Some words may be mispronounced.
MT. PLEASANT - Local peace officers have issued statements in support of the state’s new Hands-Free Driving Law. This law, enacted last July, bans all but hands-free cell phone use behind the wheel.
From July 1 to Dec. 31, there was a “warning period,” during which distracted drivers stopped by police would be warned of the new law. However, January 2026 brings the full enforcement of this law.
Henry County Sheriff Rich McNamee supports the law wholeheartedly.
“My opinion is that this law should have been passed a long time ago,” he said. “Distracted driving is on the rise and is a growing concern for car crashes. Enforcement (strict) should aid in lowering car crashes in Iowa. Good law!“
This sentiment is echoed by Lyle Murray, Police Chief of Mt. Pleasant.
“Iowa saw the lowest number of traffic deaths last year since 1925, when the state began tracking data,” said Murray.
“The Iowa Department of Transportation recorded 260 traffic deaths in 2025, one fewer than the historic low 100 years ago,” he said. “It's also 97 fewer deaths than in 2024. I think the numbers speak for themselves and I support the new law. I think everyone wants to get home safe and sound at the end of the day.”
The drop, according to state sources, was most significant after July 1, when the law went into effect.
Call Marilyn Higgins at 319-368-8895 or email her at marilyn.higgins@southeastiowaunion.com
