State-Required Hands-Free Phones for Drivers Starts June 5

HARRISBURG PA – A state regulation that makes it illegal to use a hand-held cell phone while driving in Pennsylvania, now known as “Paul Miller’s Law,” officially takes effect June 5 (2025; Thursday).

The law, signed by Gov. Josh Shapiro during 2024, prohibits the use of hand-held devices while driving. It applies even when drivers are stopped temporarily due to traffic, a red light, or other momentary delay.

The law is named for Paul Miller Jr., who was killed in a crash with a tractor trailer in 2010 in Monroe County. The accident was “the result of a distracted driver who reached for their phone while driving,” the state reports.

Pennsylvania already enforces a texting-while-driving ban. It prohibits drivers from using mobile devices to send, read, or write text-based communications while their vehicle is in motion.

Law Enforcement to Quickly Follow

Under the new law, drivers can continue to use their phones to alert emergency responders. If they are using hands-free technology, they also can make phone calls, use mapping technology, and listen to music.

Law enforcement officers will begin issuing written warnings to violators on the start date. On the following day, June 6 (Friday) they also will have the ability to issue summary citations to violators, the state said in a media release.

Representatives of the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), Pennsylvania State Police, Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission, and Pennsylvania Insurance Department were among those who reportedly urged “drivers to make safe choices behind the wheel.” State troopers “will enforce the new law to its full extent,” Commissioner Col. Christopher Paris adds.

The law also requires police and other enforcement officers “to collect data on drivers pulled over during traffic stops, including race, ethnicity, and gender. The data will be made publicly available in an annual report.”

During 2024 there were 9,950 crashes involving a distracted driver, according to PennDOT data. They resulted in more than 6,000 injuries and 49 fatalities.

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