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WHITEFISH- Whitefish has become that latest Montana community to require that drivers to use a hands-free device for cell phone communications while behind the wheel.

Billings, Butte and Missoula have already integrated laws addressing cell phone use while driving and now Whitefish is leading the way as the first small town to enforce laws on electronic devices that can distract drivers.

The idea to install hands-free cell phone devices was introduced last month during Whitefish City Council meetings.

Council members then looked over some studies from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration that show drivers who text or talk on a hand held device are more likely to be involved in a car wreck.

That study has prompted many states to change their laws and require a hands-free device for cell phone usage.

Whitefish Police Chief Bill Dial says the new law is designed to deter tourists from using their cell phones to find directions to businesses or lodging when driving through town.

"Bottom line: It's not going to take anything away from people. All they have to have is it [be] hands-free. You can have a speaker on your phone or a Bluetooth or whatever it may be. It's just trying to make the traveling here in Whitefish a little safer," Dial explained.

Police in Whitefish now must undergo 90 days of training on how to handle the new cell phone restriction rule before it goes into effect. City officials also want to post signs around town to remind drivers that cell phones are not permitted while driving, unless they are using a hands-free device.

Contact Katy Harris