MSHP cites over 1400 drivers for violating hands-free phone law in 2025

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

Missouri's hands-free phone law hits one year of being in effect on New Year's Day. Since its initial implementation in January 2025, the Missouri State Highway Patrol cited 1,417 drivers.

The Siddens Bening Hands-Free law is a secondary law that makes it illegal for drivers to use their phones while driving. That means a law enforcement officer can't pull a driver over for cell phone use alone, and there has to be another reason, like distracted driving.

Troop F, which covers much of mid-Missouri, issued 94 citations between Jan. 1 and Dec. 8, according to MSHP. That includes 90 citations for cell phone use, three citations for property damage and one for a death. Troop F issued a warning to one person for property damage as well.

People who are convicted could see these penalties:

• First conviction in two years: Up to a $150 fine;
• Second conviction in two years: Up to a $250 fine;
• Three or more convictions in two years: Up to a $500 fine;
• If a violation occurs in a school or work zone, fines up to $500;
• If a violation occurs and causes a serious injury crash, up to six months in jail and/or fines up to $1,000;
• If a violation occurs and causes a fatal crash, up to seven years in prison.

The law was passed in 2023 after a Columbia man died from a car crash in 2019 when a driver was on a video call while speeding. It didn't take effect until 2025.