Do Illinois And Iowa Have The New, Viral “No Touch Law”?

31 states are at the center of the claims.

In one of the latest TikTok "revelations", rumors are swirling that 31 states are starting a "no touch law" when it comes to driving.

Social media users are spreading viral warnings about states with "no touch laws" in videos that look like this:

@_d_e_v_0_ #greenscreen ♬ original sound - YT: Devin Owiredu | @DevsLyfe

You'll see both Illinois and Iowa on that list. A "no touch law" is basically to stay off your cellphone while you're driving. Don't touch it, as it could be illegal.  

@kindergartenthoughts Fine for touching your cell phone while driving in 31 states eith the new no touch law #notouchlaw #textinganddriving #newlaws2025 #calaws2025 #cadrivinglaw ♬ original sound - Lauren Paige

Are They True?

The rumors stem from a law that did pass in Pennsylvania called "Paul Miller's Law" that does make it illegal to use a handheld cellphone at all while driving, "even while stopped temporarily due to traffic, a red light, or other momentary delay".

This whole rumor about it taking effect in 31 states is just extra. NBC Chicago says that Illinois has had such practices in place since 2010, when they made it illegal to "compose, send or read text messages, instant messages and e-mail on a cell phone or surf the internet while driving." They added more restrictions in 2014 and 2019.

Illinois also considers it illegal to use a phone even if you're stopped.

Meanwhile, though texting and driving has always been illegal, a new law passed in Iowa this summer will allow officers to pull you over for using your phone while driving.

That Law: 4 Tips For Iowans To Help Quit Texting And Driving Before July 1

Will you get pulled over in Iowa if you're trying to update your navigation app while you're stopped in traffic? No.

Debunking website Snopes even tagged these rumors as "mostly false".