From staff reports

HARRISBURG — Pennsylvania drivers will face fines beginning June 5 for using handheld cellphones behind the wheel under a new state law aimed at reducing distracted driving.

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation and Pennsylvania State Police reminded motorists that enforcement of “Paul Miller’s Law” will begin after a warning period ends this spring. The law, signed in 2024 by Gov. Josh Shapiro, prohibits the use of handheld devices while driving, including when a vehicle is stopped in traffic or at a red light.

Starting June 5, drivers convicted of violating the law will face a $50 fine, in addition to court costs and other fees. Motorists may still use hands-free technology for calls, navigation and music, and can use a phone to contact emergency responders.

Pennsylvania already bans texting while driving, which prohibits sending, reading or writing messages while a vehicle is in motion. Depending on the circumstances, violations of either law can lead to more serious charges, including homicide by vehicle or aggravated assault by vehicle.

“Your choices behind the wheel can change lives forever,” PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll said. “Distracted driving is not only dangerous, but also illegal.”

State police Acting Commissioner Lt. Col. George Bivens said troopers will begin issuing citations once the warning period ends.

“Just a moment of inattention can lead to life-altering consequences,” Bivens said.

The law is named for Paul Miller Jr., who was killed in 2010 in Monroe County when a distracted driver reached for a phone and crashed into his vehicle. Since then, his mother, Eileen Miller, has advocated for stronger distracted driving laws.

According to PennDOT, there were 9,950 crashes involving distracted drivers in 2024, resulting in more than 6,000 injuries and 49 deaths. Officials note the figures are likely underreported.

Transportation officials encourage drivers to pull over to a safe location before using a phone, rely on passengers to handle messages when possible and limit other distractions behind the wheel.