Montana: Cell phone laws, legislation

Distracted driving update: The Montana Legislature is not in session in 2010. The next session begins Jan. 3, 2011. As of spring 2010, no drafts had been posted regarding driving and cell phones or text messaging devices.

Billings has outlawed text messaging and use of handheld cell phones while driving.

Current prohibitions:
None.

Cell phone, text messaging notes:
The Montana Highway Patrol reports that in 2009, almost 100 deaths were linked to cell phone use by drivers. That compares with 63 deaths blamed on drunken driving.

Billings has banned text messaging and use of handheld cell phones while driving in city limits. Includes motorcycles and bicycles. Cell phones and related handheld devices were added to the current distracted driving ordinance in a City Council vote July 26. Final approval came Aug. 23. The bans go into effect Oct. 31. Fines typically $110 but can be up to $300 (first offense) then up to $500.

2009 legislation:
SB 278: Use of handheld cell phones and “mobile electronic devices” would be prohibited for all drivers. Cites PDAs, text-messaging devices, video game players and laptop. Allows for use of cell phones with hands-free listening and speaking devices. This bill marked “died in process” in late April 2009 after it cleared the Highways and Transportation Committee.

HB 49: Would have prohibited use of cell phones and text messaging devices on highways near most cities and in a school zone. Tabled in committee on Feb. 6, 2009.

Legislation notes:
The city of Missoula banned texting while driving, effective July 1, 2009. Fines range from $100 to $350. The mayor vetoed a cell phone ban that had been approved by city lawmakers. The Missoula text messaging ban also applies to cyclists.

A plan to prohibit cell phone use by drivers died in committee in April 2007. There was no Montana legislative session in 2008.