The top Republican in the Iowa House of Representatives said he is “not going to stand in the way of” legislation cracking down on drivers who are distracted by their phones, as a new coalition gears up to push for a bill that would only allow hands-free phone use while driving.
The bill passed the Senate 47-3 in 2023, but it stalled in the House.
It would make it illegal to use a phone while driving, unless it is being used in a voice-activated or hands-free mode. A single touch to accept or hang up a call, or to start directions on a navigation app would be allowed. The bill would also increase the fine for using a phone while driving from $45 to $100, and enact heightened penalties for violations causing serious injury or death.
House Speaker Pat Grassley, R-New Hartford, said in an interview with IPR that he has been “apprehensive” about the policy.
“But as we’re getting to the point where I think that more and more folks are bringing data that shows that there may be a need, there still is a divide within our [House Republican] caucus,” he said. “I have told members of our caucus that I’d be willing to support it. I’m not going to stand in the way of it, but I also want the members to be comfortable doing it.”