2/18/05-The House Transportation Committee on Feb. 17 rejected a bill that would have required drivers to keep their hands off the phone.
The measure, sponsored by Rep. Jim Keane, D-Butte, sought to ban hand-held cell phone use while driving. Talking on a phone equipped with a “hands-free” device would still be permitted.
Under HB504, a driver caught using a hand-held phone could have faced a fine of at least $85. It would have exempted emergency calls.

2/11/05-A bill before the House Transportation Committee would require drivers to keep their hands off the phone.
The measure, sponsored by Rep. Jim Keane, D-Butte, would ban hand-held cell phone use while driving. Talking on a phone equipped with a “hands-free” device would still be permitted.
Under HB504, a driver caught using a hand-held phone could face a fine of at least $85. It would exempt emergency calls.
For bill status, call (406) 444-4800.