Local calls will require area code starting next October

From Montana Public Service Commission

HELENA — July 16, 2020, the Federal Communications Commission approved the designation of 988 as the new, nationwide, 3-digit abbreviated code for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.

The 988 hotline will provide a phone number for Americans in crisis to connect with suicide prevention and mental health crisis counselors.

Some area codes, like the 406 area code in Montana, currently allow 7-digit dialing to complete a local phone call, leaving off the area code. As a result of FCC Order 20-100, area codes that allow 7-digit dialing and alrea...