Paul Miller’s Law: Pennsylvania Distracted Driving Fines Begin June 5

Update Provided By Amy Quigg

Beginning June 5, 2026, Pennsylvania drivers who use a hand-held cellphone or other interactive mobile device while driving will face a $50 fine, plus court costs and other fees, under Pennsylvania’s distracted driving law, commonly known as Paul Miller’s Law.

For the past year, law enforcement officers issued written warnings as part of a public education and transition period. That grace period ends on June 4, 2026. Starting June 5, violations become a citable summary offense.

What Does Paul Miller’s Law Prohibit?

The law prohibits drivers from using an interactive mobile device while operating a motor vehicle. This includes:

• Holding or supporting a cellphone or other device with any part of the body;

• Dialing or answering by pressing more than a single button;

• Reaching for a device in a manner that requires the driver to leave their seat-belted, seated position; and

• Using a device to text, email, browse the internet, scroll social media, play games, or take or transmit photos or videos.

The law applies to smartphones, tablets, portable computers, and similar electronic devices.

When Are You Considered to Be “Driving”?

Pennsylvania defines “driving” broadly. A motorist is considered to be operating a vehicle whenever it is on a roadway, including while:

• Stopped at a red light;

• Waiting at a stop sign;

• Sitting in traffic; or

• Delayed by road conditions.

The only way to lawfully use a hand-held device is to pull over and safely park in a location off the roadway.

Hands-Free Use Remains Permitted

Drivers may still use devices in a hands-free manner, including:

• Bluetooth connections;

• Dashboard or windshield mounts;

• Voice-activated controls; and

• Single-button functions to answer or initiate a call.

The law also contains limited exceptions for emergency communications, such as contacting 911, law enforcement, firefighters, or medical responders.

Penalties Under Paul Miller’s Law

Additional consequences may apply if distracted driving contributes to a crash. If a distracted driver causes a fatal accident and is convicted of homicide by vehicle, the court may impose up to five additional years of imprisonment. For commercial drivers, violations are recorded on their commercial driving records.

How This Law Differs from Pennsylvania’s Prior Texting Ban

Since 2012, Pennsylvania has prohibited drivers from reading, writing, or sending text-based communications while a vehicle is in motion. Paul Miller’s Law significantly expands these restrictions by banning nearly all hand-held use of interactive mobile devices, even when a vehicle is temporarily stopped in traffic.

In practical terms, Pennsylvania is now a true “hands-free” state.

The Story Behind Paul Miller’s Law

The legislation is named in memory of Paul Miller Jr., a 21-year-old who was killed in 2010 when a distracted tractor-trailer driver crossed a highway median and struck his vehicle head-on. After years of advocacy by Paul’s parents, Pennsylvania enacted this law to help prevent similar tragedies and promote safer roads statewide.

What Drivers and Employers Should Do Now

With fines taking effect on June 5, Pennsylvania drivers—and businesses whose employees operate vehicles for work—should ensure that:

• Mobile devices are mounted and used only in hands-free mode;

• Drivers understand that the law applies even while stopped in traffic;

• Employees are trained on company distracted driving policies; and

• Emergency use is limited to genuine safety situations.

Questions About Compliance?

If you have questions about how Paul Miller’s Law may affect you, your employees, or your business operations, contact HRMM&L at 215.661.0400. Our attorneys are available to help you understand your legal obligations and implement policies that promote safety and compliance.