Pennsylvania's hands-free law, known as Paul Miller's Law, went into effect on June 5, 2025. The law bans drivers from holding or physically supporting a mobile device while driving, including while stopped at traffic lights. For the first year, violations resulted in a written warning, but as of June 5, 2026, the penalty rises to a $50 fine plus court costs. A separate texting-while-driving ban, already in effect, carries the same $50 fine and prohibits composing or reading any text-based communication while the vehicle is in motion. Both laws allow exceptions for hands-free use, GPS devices, vehicle-integrated systems and emergency calls to law enforcement. Beyond phones, Pennsylvania also cautions drivers against other common distractions, such as eating, adjusting the radio and interacting with passengers.
Source: Commonwealth of Pennsylvania