Effective June 5, 2025, Paul Miller's Law in Pennsylvania prohibits drivers from using handheld devices while driving. This includes using a phone for calls, texts, emails, or any other interactive functionality while behind the wheel.

This also includes while the vehicle is stationary at a traffic signal.

The law is named after Paul Miller, who was tragically killed in a distracted driving accident in 2010.

For more information visit:

https://www.pa.gov/agencies/penndot/traveling-in-pa/safety/traffic-safety-driver-topics/distracted-driving.html

🚨 New Law Alert: Paul Miller’s Law Takes Effect June 5, 2025.

📵 Key Points:
•Effective Date: June 5, 2025
•Prohibited Actions: Holding or supporting with any part of the body an interactive mobile device while driving
•First 12 Months: Written warnings issued
•After June 5, 2026: $50 fine plus court costs and other fees

🚔 Enforcement:
•This is a primary offense, meaning law enforcement can stop and cite drivers solely for using a handheld device while driving.

💡 Exceptions:
•Use of hands-free devices is permitted.
•Emergency calls to 911 are allowed.

Act 18 0f 2024 (06/05/2024) SB 37. PN 1588, (misc. dates)

Paul Miller’s Law

Paul Miller was 21 years old when he was killed in a vehicle crash on July 5, 2010. Miller’s vehicle was struck head on by a tractor trailer that had crossed the dividing median. The operator of the commercial vehicle was on the telephone at the time he lost control and crossed the median.

In 2023, distracted driving was the leading cause of car crashes in Pennsylvania. Paul Miller’s Law was enacted on June 5, 2024, in response.

The provisions of this law will take effect at staggered dates. Here are the provisions and the corresponding effective dates.

- The definition of,” Interactive wireless communications device” will change to “Interactive mobile device” 75 Pa.C.S.A. §102 Definitions. The new definition is broadened to include multiple handheld functions but also creates exceptions allowing the use of GPS, navigation, hands free functionality, affixed mass transit or school bus devices, or devices being used exclusively for emergency notifications.
- Requirement for new drivers to receive education and testing from PennDOT on the dangers of distracted driving as well as an addition to the student driver’s manual on distracted driving and the related penalties
- 75 Pa.C.S.A. § 3316 is amended to reflect “interactive mobile device” language. Texting and driving remains prohibited. However, an exception is added allowing a driver to text and drive if it is necessary to communicate with law enforcement or emergency services to prevent injury to persons or property.
Effective: June 5, 2025 - 75 Pa.C.S.A. § 3316.1. Prohibiting use of interactive mobile device, a summary offense is created, making it illegal to use an interactive mobile device while driving a motor vehicle with the exception of communicating with law enforcement or emergency services to prevent injury to persons or property. The section apples to vehicles who are temporarily stopped in the traffic flow due to traffic jams or traffic control devices. (it does not apply to those who have pulled safely out of the flow of traffic). Prohibited behavior includes holding, dialing with more than one button, or reaching in a manner that requires one to become unseated or un-seatbelted.

Only warnings may be issued from June 5, 2025, until June 5, 2026.
On June 6, 2026, this offense will be punishable by a $50 fine.
3316.1(d) specifically supersedes and preempts any local ordinances.

Effective: June 5, 2025 - Section 3732 (relating to homicide by vehicle) – incorporates (prohibiting use of interactive mobile device) and provides an additional term, not to exceed five years of confinement.

Let’s honor Paul’s memory by committing to distraction-free driving. Your attention can save lives and save our lives.