Hunter
11/23/25
The State of Iowa’s ban on cellphone use while driving went into effect July 1st, with a six-month grace period on fines. But that hasn’t deterred the issuance of warnings, according to the Iowa State Patrol.
The Gazette reports the new law also includes other mobile devices, but drivers still can talk on their phones using the hands-free option.
Sgt. Paul Parizek is the Public Information Officer for the Des Moines Police Department, and said they continue to see a lot of violations.
The Iowa State Patrol reports they’ve issued nearly 8000 warnings between July 1st and October 31st.
Iowa City Police have issued 90 warnings, while the Johnson County Sheriff’s office have been giving verbal warnings along with information about the new law.
Cedar Rapids Police say the new law hasn’t been a priority, but they’ve issued over a dozen warnings for obvious infractions. The Linn County Sheriff’s office has issued nearly 50 warnings during the period, according to the newspaper.
Beginning January 1, drivers found violating the cellphone and mobile device law will pay a $100 fine. Law enforcement officials can also consider violations when considering a driver’s license suspension.