Put down the phone—Pennsylvania means it this time. The state’s distracted driving law kicks into full enforcement on June 5, and drivers who ignore it will now face real fines, writes staff for TheKeystone.
Known as Paul Miller’s Law, the measure goes beyond Pennsylvania’s old texting-while-driving ban.
Holding or using a handheld device behind the wheel is now off-limits entirely, whether that means sending a text, scrolling social media, taking a photo, making a call, or playing a game.
The restriction also applies when vehicles are temporarily stopped in traffic or at red lights.
The law is named for Paul Miller Jr., a 21-year-old East Stroudsburg University student killed in 2010 when a distracted driver reached for a phone and struck his vehicle.
His death became the rallying point for years of advocacy that eventually produced the legislation bearing his name.
Since the law took effect in June 2025, police could only issue written warnings. That grace period ends June 5th.
Starting then, a violation carries a $50 fine, plus court costs and fees.
For most drivers, the violation won’t add points to their license record. Commercial drivers are a different story, with violations still going on the books.
The law also carries steeper penalties when distracted driving results in a fatality.
Drivers aren’t left entirely disconnected. Hands-free calling, Bluetooth systems, mounted GPS devices, and emergency calls are all still allowed.
Learn more about Paul Miller’s Law and the upcoming changes to the law starting June 5 in TheKeystone.
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