Pennsylvania enacts handheld phone ban June 5

Pennsylvania’s hand-held phone ban is already in force, and the next change is financial. Paul Miller’s Law took effect on June 5, 2025, making it illegal for drivers in the state to use a hand-held cell phone while operating a vehicle, including while stopped in traffic or at a red light, according to PennDOT. The law was signed by Governor Josh Shapiro on June 5, 2024, as Senate Bill 37, now Act 18 of 2024. Beginning June 6, 2026, police can move from warnings to summary citations carrying a $50 fine, plus court costs and fees, PennDOT said. ### When does the ban actually apply? June 5, 2025, is the date the hand-held ban took effect statewide. That means Pennsylvania drivers have already spent a year under the law’s rules, with officers issuing written warnings during the first 12 months, according to PennDOT. June 6, 2026, is when enforcement escalates. (pa.gov) PennDOT said law enforcement will have the ability to issue summary citations to violators beginning that day. ### What does the law prohibit behind the wheel? Act 18 of 2024 bars use of an “interactive mobile device” while driving if it is hand-held. The statute’s definition covers devices used for voice communication, texting, emailing, internet browsing, instant messaging, games, images, video and social media, according to the Pennsylvania General Assembly text. (pa.gov) PennDOT said the ban applies even when a driver is stopped temporarily because of traffic, a red light or another momentary delay. That is broader than Pennsylvania’s earlier texting-while-driving restriction, which applied to text-based communications while a vehicle was in motion. ### Can drivers still use GPS or make calls? (legis.state.pa.us) PennDOT said drivers may still use phones for emergency notifications. The agency also said drivers may make calls, use GPS and listen to music if they are using hands-free technology. The statute also excludes devices used exclusively as a navigation system, devices used in a hands-free manner or with a hands-free accessory integrated into the vehicle, and certain radios or devices used by emergency responders and some commercial drivers under federal rules. (pa.gov) ### Why is it called Paul Miller’s Law? Paul Miller’s Law is named for Paul Miller Jr., according to state and related public guidance tied to the measure. (pa.gov) PennDOT’s release said the law is aimed at reducing distracted driving and quoted Transportation Secretary Mike Carroll saying, “Paul Miller’s Law is about saving lives.” (legis.state.pa.us) Pennsylvania State Police Commissioner Colonel Christopher Paris said in the same release that troopers would enforce the law “to its full extent.” He said distracted driving “is not a minor offense” and urged drivers to stay focused behind the wheel. ### What should Pennsylvania drivers watch next? June 6, 2026, is the next key date for motorists. (pa.gov) That is when written warnings give way to ticketing under the state’s hand-held device ban, according to PennDOT. Drivers can find the state’s current guidance through PennDOT and the Pennsylvania General Assembly text of Act 18 of 2024.