The Iowa Senate voted 47-1 today to pass SF22, a bill to reduce distracted driving on Iowa’s roadways. The measure, sponsored by Senator Mark Lofgren, will now make its way to the House of Representatives where advocates believe it will pass as soon as this week.

Luke Hoffman, Executive Director of the Iowa Bicycle Coalition, said, “We know passing this law will save the lives of countless Iowans, plain and simple. We want to thank Senator Lofgren for his leadership in the Iowa Senate to help get this done. We commend his leadership and courage on this issue. Too many times, I have heard stories from family members of people who have been killed and injured by distracted driving. We strongly urge the Iowa House to take this up and end this safety epidemic now”

Iowa urgently needs a hands-free driving law, which would make it illegal to have a cell phone in-hand while driving. Over the past decade, distracted driving crashes have increased by 43%, according to Iowa DOT's crash data. Similar laws in states like Michigan, Ohio, Alabama, and Minnesota have proven effective, reducing crash rates significantly. Iowans are frequently using their devices while driving—96% of residents report regularly seeing others driving with a cellphone in hand, according to the Governor’s Safety Traffic Bureau's annual State Fair survey. The same survey found 85% of Iowans support a hands-free driving law. It is time for Iowa to join 30 other states in adopting this crucial roadway safety measure.

The Iowa Bicycle Coalition has been a strong advocate for this legislation along with their partners in the End Distracted Driving Coalition, a statewide group of more than 28 organizations, including representatives from the law enforcement, business, healthcare, labor, transportation, and insurance sectors. The coalition's mission is to reduce distracted driving by passing a comprehensive hands-free driving law in Iowa. By uniting diverse voices, the coalition aims to raise awareness, promote safer roads, and pass this critical legislation during the 2025 Iowa legislative session.

About the Iowa Bicycle Coalition

The Iowa Bicycle Coalition is a statewide nonprofit organization that advocates for safe, enjoyable, and accessible bicycling in Iowa through education, events, better policy, and building a community of supporters. Our vision is that bicycling in Iowa is safe, enjoyable, and accessible for all. You can learn more at www.Iowabicyclecoalition.org.