No Phones In School Zones Jan. 1

A new state law will have drivers in school zones watching their phone habits.

THP Lt. Jimmy Neal said January 1, it becomes illegal to use a handheld phone in a school zone.

“We want people to realize, January 1 it’s all going to change as far as the use of handheld phones,” Neal said.

Those under the age of 18 can’t be on the phone at all. Drivers over the age of 18 can only be on the phone if they’re using a handsfree device, Neal said.

“What we are looking at for enforcement purposes, a school zone, it’s going to be where the flashing lights start,” Neal said.

There’s still a few months before the new law goes into effect. Neal recommends familiarizing yourself with school zones you regularly encounter and practicing now.