We are a smidge over 1 month away as to when Senate Bill 398 will go in effect.

What is Senate Bill 398? It’s also known as the “Siddens Bening Hands-Free Law” which prohibits manual texting while driving for ALL ages.

The new law will go into effect on August 28!

First time offenders will be fined $150.  Fines will increase up to $500 for repeat offenses within a two-year period.

The law prohibits drivers from:

• Manually typing, writing, sending, or reading text-based messages
• Recording, posting, sending or broadcasting video, including video calls and social media posts
• Watching a video or movie
• Physically holding or supporting a cell phone with any part of their body

Missouri still allows you to place or receive hands-free calls while driving, send or receive voice text messages, and utilize cell phone GPS navigation and music or podcast functions.