06/02/2026
Pennsylvania's Distracted Driving Law Known as Paul Miller’s Law bans the use of hand-held devices while driving. Going live June 5, 2026, the law prohibits as a primary offense any driver from using an interactive mobile device (IMD) while driving a motor vehicle.
The law: Defines an interactive mobile device as a handheld wireless telephone, personal digital assistant, smart phone, portable or mobile computer, or similar device which can be used for voice communication, texting, emailing, browsing the Internet, instant messaging, playing games, taking or transmitting images, recording or broadcasting videos, creating or sharing social media or otherwise sending or receiving electronic data. Defines driving as operating a motor vehicle on a highway, including anytime the motor vehicle is temporarily stationary because of traffic, a traffic control device (e.g., a traffic light or stop sign), or other momentary delay.
Defines the use of an interactive mobile device as using at least one hand to hold, or supporting with another part of the body, an interactive mobile device, dialing or answering an interactive mobile device by pressing more than a single button, or reaching for an interactive mobile device that requires a driver to maneuver so that the driver is no longer in a seated driving position, restrained by a seat belt.
Under this Law As a primary offense, drivers can be stopped by police if they have a mobile device in their hand while driving.
Effective June 5, 2026, the penalty is a summary offense with a $50 fine, plus court costs and other fees. If a driver is convicted of homicide by vehicle and driving while distracted, they may be sentenced up to an additional five years in prison.
