KY Senator Jimmy Higdon to Introduce Hands Free Device Law in 2026

From Keith West at the General Assembly -

Sen. Jimmy Higdon

Keith West reporting from the State Capitol in Frankfort states that as the 2026 legislative session inches closer, legislators are beginning to formulate bills that they hope will get a hearing during the session.

During the Interim Joint Committee on Transportation, State Senator Jimmy Higdon from District 14 presented a bill that he hopes will save lives on Kentucky's public roadways. The legislation that Senator Higdon is proposing would make it illegal to use a handheld device, such as a cell phone, while driving.

Senator Higdon stated that distracted driving is a tragedy that can and should be avoided.

Higdon was quoted as saying: "This is a winnable battle. We can, with this piece of legislation, we can reduce deaths on Kentucky highways. And like I said, as many as 814 were killed in 2023. Each and every one of those deaths were preventable. According to the legislative proposal, the fine for using a cell phone while the vehicle is in motion would be $100 plus court costs."

Senator Higdon said that these types of bills have come before the legislature in the past, but have stalled during sessions. All the states that border Kentucky have such laws in place. Senator Higdon plans to file the bill when the 2026 session gavels in this January.