BETHLEHEM, Pa. — It’s become a common practice and common sight on the roads. Now it’s illegal.
Starting Thursday, motorists in Pennsylvania are prohibited from using hand-held cell phones while driving. That includes while temporarily stopped due to traffic, a red light or other momentary delays.
The so-called “Paul Miller’s Law” was signed by Gov. Josh Shapiro last year.
Paul Miller Jr. was a Scranton resident and East Stroudsburg University senior who died on Route 33 in Monroe County on July 5, 2010, as he headed home from Bethlehem.
The 21-year-old was killed after a tractor-trailer jackknifed and crossed the highway in Saylorsburg. Authorities said the truck driver lost control because he was on his cell phone.
“My son did everything right – he was killed by someone else’s unsafe choices behind the wheel."Eileen Miller, mother of Paul Miller Jr., who died in 2010
Pennsylvania already enforces a texting-while-driving ban that prohibits drivers from using mobile devices to send, read or write text-based communications while their vehicle is in motion.
“Paul Miller’s Law is about saving lives,” state Transportation Secretary Mike Carroll said. “Your choices behind the wheel can change lives forever.
"Make the safe choice. Put your phone out of reach and don’t text and drive. One text, one glance down — it could kill someone. And it’s not worth it.”
'A beacon of protection'
Under Paul Miller’s Law, police will begin issuing warnings for violations for one year. They will be able to issue summary citations to violators beginning June 6, 2026.
Under the law, the fine is $50, plus court costs and fees.
Hands-free devices while driving will remain legal in Pennsylvania.
According to the state, violators of Miller’s Law convicted of homicide by vehicle because of distracted driving could get a sentence of up to an additional five years in prison.
Miller’s mother, Eileen Miller, has advocated for years for the law, which was sponsored by state Sen. Rosemary Brown, R-Monroe/Lackawanna/Wayne.
“Nearly 15 years ago, two Dunmore state troopers knocked on my door to tell me that my son was killed,” Eileen Miller said during a news conference last week.
“My son did everything right — he was killed by someone else’s unsafe choices behind the wheel.
“This law is for every family in Pennsylvania that doesn't have to experience two state troopers knocking on their door to tell them that their loved one was killed by distracted driving.
"Paul Miller’s Law will be a beacon of protection for every driver and passenger in Pennsylvania.”
