HARRISBURG, PA — Starting June 5, Pennsylvania will enforce “Paul Miller’s Law,” prohibiting drivers from using hand-held cell phones while driving. This legislation marks a significant step in Governor Josh Shapiro’s commitment to improving roadway safety.
The law bans the use of hand-held devices even during brief stops, such as at traffic lights or in congested traffic. Violators will initially receive warnings through June 5, 2026, after which summary citations will be issued. Notably, hands-free technology remains permissible for calls, GPS navigation, and music.
“Paul Miller’s Law is about saving lives,” said PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll. “One glance at your phone can lead to tragedy. Make the safe choice and avoid distractions behind the wheel.”
Named after 19-year-old Paul Miller Jr., who was killed by a distracted driver in 2010, the law aims to prevent similar tragedies. Paul’s mother, Eileen Miller, who became a national advocate for stricter distracted driving laws, emphasized its importance. “This law is for every family that won’t have to hear the knock on their door telling them their loved one is gone because of a preventable choice,” she said.
The Pennsylvania State Police will enforce the law vigilantly. “Distracted driving is not minor. A single second of inattention can have irreversible consequences,” stated Major Robert Krol of the Bureau of Patrol.
Distracted driving remains a major safety concern in Pennsylvania. According to PennDOT, 9,950 distracted driving-related crashes occurred in 2024, causing over 6,000 injuries and 49 deaths. The actual numbers are believed to be higher due to underreporting.
To prevent bias in enforcement, the law requires data collection during traffic stops, including drivers’ race, ethnicity, and gender. This effort, supported by the Shapiro Administration and the Legislative Black Caucus, ensures public trust in law enforcement practices.
State Senator Rosemary Brown, who championed the legislation, expressed confidence in its impact. “This commonsense law will save lives by changing dangerous behaviors. We’ve worked tirelessly to make our roads safer for everyone.”
With driver behavior accounting for 83% of annual crashes in the state, officials urge motorists to prioritize safety. Drivers are encouraged to use “Do Not Disturb” phone settings or safely pull over if they must use their device. Additional distractions like eating, grooming, or dealing with passengers are also discouraged to minimize risks.
The Shapiro Administration’s enforcement of “Paul Miller’s Law” aims to make Pennsylvania roads safer while honoring the memory of those lost to distracted driving.
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