Missouri's Phones-Down Law Goes Into Full-Force: Cops To Crack Down On Texting While Driving

The grace period is over for a Missouri law banning cellphone use while driving.

Police are reminded the public that starting Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2025, law enforcement will begin writing tickets to violators of the Siddens Bening Hands-Free Law, which went into effect in August.

This means drivers cannot hold or support a cellphone while behind the wheel. The law says drivers on Missouri roadways:

- can use Bluetooth or voice-activated features (GPS & other hands-free apps)

- cannot manually type, send, or read any text-based communications

- cannot watch, record, post, send, or broadcast a video or movie

However, according to the law's code: "No person shall be stopped, inspected, or detained solely for a violation of this section."

The law is an effort to reduce distracted driving, which the Department of Transportation says is a leading cause of crashes in Missouri. Penalties start at $150 for a first offense and increase for subsequent violations.

Drivers can still use a cellphone for the purpose of reporting a crime, medical emergency, or traffic crash.