Committee considers cell phone ban while driving

Committee considers cell phone ban while driving

STEPHEN DOCKERY, Associated Press

HELENA — State lawmakers are considering a proposal to ban cell phone use while driving in Montana, except for hands-free devices such as headsets.

Senate Bill 251 sponsored by Democratic Rep. Christine Kaufmann of Helena would levy a $100 fine for using a cell phone to text or talk while driving. The infraction would not go against the driver's record.

The Senate Highways and Transportation Committee is holding a hearing on the bill on Thursday.

If it passes, Montana would join Washington, D.C., and eight...