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 Mississippi (MS), texting while driving is prohibited for all drivers. This ban is in line with the majority of states that have recognized the dangers associated with texting and driving. However, Mississippi does not have a statewide ban on the use of hand-held cell phones while driving for all drivers. Instead, the state focuses on specific populations: novice drivers and school bus drivers. In Mississippi, all cell phone use is banned for bus drivers when they are driving and for novice drivers, which typically includes those who hold a learner's permit or an intermediate license. It's important to note that while there may not be a statewide ban on hand-held phone use for all drivers, local ordinances in various cities and towns within Mississippi may impose stricter regulations. Therefore, drivers should be aware of and comply with both state laws and any local ordinances that may apply to cell phone use while driving.