New ordinances barring drivers from using their mobile devices manually in Buda and Kyle did not yield any traffic citations in 2015. A similar law in San Marcos takes effect Feb. 1.

The cities of Buda and Kyle enacted so-called “hands-free” laws in July and September, respectively, but each implemented a grace period during which violators were not subject to fines.

Kyle Police Chief Jeff Barnett said although no citations have been issued, officers have given violators verbal warnings about the new law. The city has also installed 12 road signs notifying drivers of the ordinance. Six more signs are slated to be installed but are awaiting Texas Department of Transportation approval as they are on state roadways, Barnett said.

Barnett suspects that citations will be issued in 2016, he said.

“Since most cities along I-35 have adopted some sort of hands-free ordinance, we feel like everybody traveling in Central Texas is aware,” he said. “Therefore violators are doing so with the knowledge they are violating the law.”

Buda Police Chief Bo Kidd could not be reached for comment.

San Marcos City Council enacted a hands-free ordinance in November. Enforcement of the ordinance will begin Feb. 1, but drivers who violate the law will be given warnings from Feb. 1-29.

In Kyle, using a handheld electronic device while operating a vehicle, even while at a complete stop, is prohibited. In Buda and San Marcos, use of handheld electronic devices is only prohibited while operating a moving motor vehicle.

All three ordinances allow motorists to use Bluetooth wireless systems or other hands-free systems to operate mobile and navigation devices.

Violating the ordinances is punishable by fines ranging from $100 to $500, depending on the number of times the driver has previously been cited.