The grace period for ticketing those guilty of distracted driving will come to an end on Jan. 1.In Missouri, the hands-free law, which prohibits the use of cellphones while driving, has been in effect since August 2023. Initially, this law included a grace period allowing drivers time to adjust to the new regulations and promote safer driving habits before being ticketed for the offense. However, starting Jan. 1, that grace period will be lifted and compliance will be strictly enforced.In 2025, the Siddens Bening Hands-Free Law will allow law enforcement to actively issue tickets to drivers who are found using or even holding their cellphones while operating a vehicle. The law – which applies to both noncommercial and commercial motor vehicles prohibits drivers from physically holding, supporting or using electronic devices to send, read or write text messages while on public highways.The Siddens-Bening Hands-Free Law was established in remembrance of two Miss...