Helena Votes To Ban Mobile Devices While Driving

Helena city commissioners have voted in favor of an ordinance that would prohibit the use of either hands-free or handheld electronic devices — including cellphones, pagers and laptops — while operating a vehicle.

Monday's 5-0 vote was the first passage of the proposal, and the ordinance would take effect 30 days after final passage, which is scheduled for Nov. 7.

The ordinance would bar anyone operating a vehicle — motorized or not — from texting, calling or using other mobile electronic devices while on a roadway within city limits.

That means people would have to stop on the side of the road before texting, dialing or answering a call, even with hands-free devices like Bluetooth or speakerphone.

The fine for not doing so would be up to $100.