Although there is no federal (nationwide) law that prohibits texting or using a wireless phone while driving, many states have passed laws that prohibit such activities—and some municipalities (cities, towns) have also passed ordinances that restrict texting, talking, or emailing while driving. For example:

• 25 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, and Guam have banned drivers from hand-held phone use while driving.

• 48 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, and Guam have banned texting while driving for all drivers.

• 37 states and the District of Columbia prohibit all cell phone use by novice drivers.

• 23 states and the District of Columbia prohibit school bus drivers from cell phone use while driving.

For more information on state laws, visit the Governor Highway Safety Association page by copying this link and pasting it into your internet browser: https://www.ghsa.org/state-laws/issues/distracted%20driving

In Kansas, texting while driving is prohibited for all drivers. The state law bans the use of a wireless communication device to write, send, or read a written communication while operating a motor vehicle. This includes texting, emailing, and messaging. Kansas does not have a statewide ban on the use of hand-held phones while driving for all drivers, but such restrictions may exist at the local level through municipal ordinances. Additionally, Kansas law prohibits all cell phone use (hand-held and hands-free) for novice drivers, which includes any driver with a learner's permit or an intermediate license. School bus drivers in Kansas are also banned from using cell phones while driving when children are present. It's important for drivers in Kansas to be aware of and comply with these regulations to ensure safety on the roads and to avoid legal penalties.