by Starting June 5, 2025, Pennsylvania drivers will be required to go hands-free behind the wheel. The state’s new hands-free driving law, officially known as Paul Miller’s Law, aims to combat distracted driving by banning the use of handheld devices while operating a vehicle.
Signed into law by Governor Josh Shapiro on June 5, 2024, this bipartisan legislation makes Pennsylvania the 29th state to implement such a law. The measure honors the memory of Paul Miller Jr., a 21-year-old Monroe County resident tragically killed by a distracted driver in 2010.
Under the new law, drivers can still make calls, use GPS, and play music—but only through hands-free technology. Emergency calls remain an exception.
“Too many lives have been shattered by distracted driving,” said Governor Shapiro. “This law gives our police the tools they need to make our roads safer.”
Grace Period and Penalties
Drivers will receive only written warnings for the first 12 months after the law takes effect. Starting June 5, 2026, violators will face a $50 fine, plus court costs and additional fees.
Distracted Driving in PA: A Growing Problem
According to PennDOT, distracted driving caused over 11,200 crashes in 2023—more than those caused by alcohol. The same year saw a 2.25% rise in overall traffic fatalities, increasing from 1,179 deaths in 2022 to 1,209 in 2023.
“Driving requires 100% of your attention,” said PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll. “This law is a major step toward safer roads.”
Law Enforcement Support
Pennsylvania State Police Commissioner Colonel Christopher Paris emphasized that the ban on handling phones while driving will “save lives” by reducing accidents caused by distraction.
Over a Decade in the Making
State Senator Rosemary Brown spent more than 10 years fighting for this law. “It’s not just legislation—it’s a promise to protect Pennsylvanians,” she said.
Also present at the bill signing was Eileen Miller, Paul Miller Jr.’s mother and a national advocate against distracted driving. Fighting back tears, she said, “I promised Paul I’d make a change. This law is for him.”
A Step Toward Equity
The law also includes a data transparency measure. Officers will be required to log the race, ethnicity, and gender of individuals stopped for violations. The Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus championed this addition to ensure fair and accountable enforcement.
“This law shows that safety and justice can go hand in hand,” said Representative Napoleon Nelson.
