Texting and driving has been a big no-no in Colorado for years, but starting next year, drivers will also be ticketed for holding and using a phone while driving.

In June, Governor Jared Polis signed Senate Bill 24-065, "Mobile Electronic Devices & Motor Vehicle Driving," which makes it illegal to use a mobile electronic device while driving unless it's a hands-free accessory.

"Physically holding a mobile electronic device in the driver’s hand or pinning a mobile electronic device to a driver’s ear to conduct voice-based communication," reads the bill.

Colorado law previously banned drivers under 18 from using cell phones, but that will now apply to all drivers.

This new law will go into effect on January 1, 2025.

"For a long time, troopers have been able to detect when someone is driving distracted by a vehicle weaving between lanes, delayed starts at stop signs and lights, not to mention seeing a phone or other device in a driver’s hand," said Col. Matthew Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol. "This legislation allows us to address risky and careless behaviors in a proactive way to increase the safety of all roadway users."

According to the law, a driver will only be cited if an officer sees the individual use a device in a way that caused them to drive in a "careless and imprudent manner."

So, what are the consequences of breaking this new law?

Per the law, a first-time offense results in a $75 fine and two license suspension points. If a driver is caught for a second time within a 24-month period, a $150 fine and three license suspension points will be issued. If caught for a third or subsequent offense within 24 months, a $250 fine and four license suspension points will be issued.

A violation may be dismissed if the driver can prove they purchased a hands-free accessory.

"This new legislation is a crucial step toward making Colorado’s roads safer for everyone," said Shoshana Lew, executive director of CDOT. "By encouraging drivers to focus solely on the task of driving, we can reduce the number of distracted driving incidents and prevent crashes that often come with such behavior. This law aligns with best practices from across the nation and reflects our commitment to protecting all road users, whether in a vehicle, on a bike or walking."

In 2025, Colorado will join 29 other states that outlaw hand-held phones.