Pennsylvania will implement Paul Miller’s Law on June 5, prohibiting the use of hand-held mobile devices while driving, even when stopped at red lights. The legislation, signed by Gov. Josh Shapiro in June 2024, aims to reduce distracted driving incidents.
Key provisions of the law
Drivers are forbidden from using hand-held devices for activities such as texting, emailing, browsing the internet or any other form of electronic communication while operating a vehicle.
The ban applies even when vehicles are temporarily stopped at traffic signals. The use of hands-free technology, such as Bluetooth or voice-activated commands, remains legal.
“Paul Miller’s Law is about saving lives,” said PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll. “Your choices behind the wheel can change lives forever. Make the safe choice. Put your phone out of reach and don’t text and drive. One text, one glance down – it could kill someone. And it’s not worth it.”
In 2024, there were 9,950 crashes involving a distracted driver, resulting in more than 6,000 injuries and 49 fatalities.
Enforcement and penalties
During a 12-month grace period starting when the law takes effect, violators will receive written warnings. Beginning June 6, 2026, law enforcement officers will issue summary citations carrying a $50 fine, plus court costs.
If a distracted driver is convicted of homicide by vehicle, they may face up to five additional years in prison under this law.
“The Pennsylvania State Police will enforce the new law to its full extent,” said Col. Christopher Paris, commissioner of the Pennsylvania State Police. “Distracted driving is not a minor offense. Just one second of inattention can result in irreversible consequences. We urge all drivers to stay focused behind the wheel.”
The law includes a provision requiring law enforcement agencies to collect and publicly report data on drivers stopped for violations. This data will include race, ethnicity and gender, aiming to promote transparency in policing practices.
Background and advocacy
The law is named in memory of Paul Miller Jr., a 21-year-old from Monroe County who died in 2010 due to a distracted driver. Since his death, his mother, Eileen Miller, has been a strong advocate for stricter distracted driving laws.
Her efforts, alongside those of state legislators, led to the bipartisan passage of the legislation.
“Nearly 15 years ago, two Dunmore state troopers knocked on my door to tell me that my son was killed,” Miller said. “My son did everything right — he was killed by someone else’s unsafe choices behind the wheel. This law is for every family in Pennsylvania that doesn’t have to experience two state troopers knocking on their door to tell them that their loved one was killed by distracted driving.”
