Local calls will require area code due to National Suicide Prevention Lifeline rollout

HELENA, Montana - On 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, current...