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 handheld device to write, send, or read a written communication while operating a motor vehicle. This includes texting, emailing, and messaging. Kansas also has restrictions on cell phone use for novice drivers. Specifically, drivers with a learner's permit or an intermediate license, which generally includes teenage drivers, are not allowed to use wireless communication devices except for emergency purposes or when talking to a parent or legal guardian. However, Kansas does not have a statewide ban on the use of handheld phones for talking while driving for all drivers. It's important to note that some cities or towns within Kansas may have their own ordinances that provide stricter regulations on mobile phone use while driving. Drivers in Kansas should be aware of both state laws and local ordinances to ensure compliance.