Rating:

0.0 (0 votes)

The Helena City Commission has passed an ordinance banning the use of cell phones and other hand held devices while driving.

The final 5-0 vote came after months of deliberation and floods of public comment.

Commissioner Dan Ellison began the process back in May saying the use of cell phones by drivers was making the streets of Helena dangerous.

The ordinance originally banned the use of hands-free devices, but after hearing from the public Ellison decided to amend it.

Four of the five Commissioners voted to allow the use of hands-free devices. Commissioner Dick Thweat says he couldn't support the amendment because it's the conversation which distracts drivers not the device.

Drivers convicted of violating the law could be fined up to $100.

Several members of the public voiced their opinions.

Helena resident Sarah Etchart says she lost a family member in a car wreck involving a driver on a cell phone. She supports the ordinance and says it's critically needed to making city roads more safe.

Helena resident Connie House opposed the ordinance. She says law enforcement needs to enforce the current laws before mandating another one.

The law goes into effect 30 days after final passage.