South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster ceremonially signed a measure prohibiting holding or supporting mobile devices with any part of the body while operating a vehicle.
Officials said that H. 3276, the South Carolina Hands-Free and Distracted Driving Act, strengthens restrictions by prohibiting drivers from reading, composing, or transmitting any text, email, app interaction, or website interaction on a mobile electronic device. It also prohibits viewing movies, playing video games, or participating in video calls while driving.
A “mobile electronic device” includes a cellular telephone, portable computer, GPS receiver, electronic game, or any similar stand-alone electronic device that is used to communicate, display, or record digital content.
Violations carry a fine of $100 for a first offense. Subsequent offenses within a three-year period will result in a $200 fine and the addition of two points to the driver’s record.
The bill takes effect on Sept. 1, with a 180-day warning period to allow drivers time to adjust before full enforcement begins on Feb. 28, 2026.
South Carolina’s previous texting-and-driving law prohibited composing, sending, or reading text-based communications while driving.
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