Visalia police issued 29 citations for hands-free cell phone violations during a distracted driving enforcement operation Thursday, authorities said.

The Visalia Police Department said the citations were issued as part of an operation targeting drivers using handheld phones while behind the wheel.

California has had distracted driving laws in place since 2008, and under current law drivers are not allowed to hold a phone or other electronic device while driving, including for talking, texting, or using apps.

Using a handheld phone while driving is punishable by a fine, and a second violation within 36 months of a prior conviction can result in a point being added to a driver’s record.

Police advised drivers who need to make a call or program directions to pull over to a safe parking spot and silence or place their phone out of reach before driving.

Authorities said the enforcement effort was funded by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

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