Warning phase over for Missoula cellphone ban

MISSOULA (AP) — Missoula's ban on the use of cellphones while driving transitions on Tuesday from an educational phase involving warnings to one with citations carrying fines up to $300.

The Missoulian reports (http://bit.ly/X6HhQj) that a second citation can lead to a fine of up to $500.

The ban allows for the hands-free use of cellphones, such as putting a caller on speakerphone or using ear buds with a microphone.

Missoula Police Chief Mark Muir says officers issued 28 warnings in December.

He says as daylight increases and officers can see inside cars more easily, he expects more tickets to be issued.

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