Pennsylvania has joined 28 other states in banning the use of handheld devices while driving, following the passage and signing of Senate Bill 37—known as Paul Miller’s Law. Governor Josh Shapiro signed the bipartisan legislation into law on June 5, 2024. It will take effect exactly one year later, on June 5, 2025.
Named in memory of Paul Miller Jr., a 21-year-old Monroe County resident killed in 2010 by a distracted driver, the law prohibits motorists from holding or supporting a phone or electronic device while operating a vehicle. Drivers may still make calls, use GPS, or stream music—but only through hands-free technology. Emergency calls are exempt.
“I have met too many people with injuries they’ll live with for the rest of their lives because they were hit by a distracted driver—and too many families that have an empty seat at the dinner table,” Governor Shapiro said. “This commonsense, bipartisan legislation empowers our state and local police to stop distracted driving and make our roads and communities safer.”
For the first 12 months following its enactment, drivers caught violating the new law will receive written warnings. Beginning June 5, 2026, violators will face a $50 fine, plus court costs and other applicable fees.
The law addresses a growing concern in the state. In 2023 alone, distracted driving was cited in more than 11,200 crashes—more than alcohol-related crashes—and contributed to a 2.25% rise in overall traffic deaths, according to PennDOT’s latest data. There were 1,209 traffic fatalities in 2023, up from 1,179 the year before.
“Driving requires 100% of your attention, 100% of the time,” said PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll. “This bill is an important step forward in discouraging distracted driving and keeping everyone safe on the road.”
Colonel Christopher Paris, Commissioner of the Pennsylvania State Police, echoed that message. “Eliminating the handling of cell phones while driving will certainly reduce the number of crashes and save lives,” he said.
The legislation was championed by State Senator Rosemary Brown, who worked for over a decade to bring the bill to passage. “This bill is more than legislation—it’s a reminder of the power of perseverance and the impact we can have when we prioritize public safety,” Brown said.
Paul Miller’s mother, Eileen Miller, who has become a national advocate against distracted driving, was present at the signing ceremony. “I whispered in the ear of my son at the morgue… I said I would fight for change,” she recalled. “Today is Paul Miller’s Law. I’ve gotten it done, Paul—I did it.”
In addition to banning handheld devices, the law includes a data transparency provision. Law enforcement officers will now be required to record the race, ethnicity, and gender of individuals stopped for violations, with the data to be publicly reported each year. This amendment, advocated by the Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus, is intended to promote equity and accountability in traffic enforcement.
Representative Napoleon Nelson praised the law for balancing public safety with civil rights. “This is a shining example of responsible legislation,” he said. “We will not sacrifice justice for safety, nor safety for justice. We can—and must—do both.”
To learn more about Paul Miller’s Law and how to comply, visit www.penndot.gov.