After years and year of rejecting a ban on holding a phone while driving, the Louisiana Legislature has given the bill final approval this year.
The measure now heads to the governor's desk after final passage in the House 94 to one.
The legislation bans "holding or physically supporting a wireless telecommunications device in either or both hands."
A first offense fine is $100. Judges can also reduce the financial penalty and order community service including picking up litter.
There were amendments that made it clear that cops are not allowed to stop someone just because they are holding a phone or other device.
"It shall constitute a secondary offense when the officer detains a driver for an alleged violation of another provision."
So, police will have to identify another way a driver is breaking the law to stop them. That could include speeding, weaving, driving too slowly or any other primary violation. Then they can site the driver with illegally holding a phone.
Initially, drivers caught holding a phone will not get a ticket. That will change next year.
"For any violation occurring before January 1, 2026, the law enforcement officer shall only issue a written warning."
