Pennsylvania Begins Issuing $50 Fines for Handheld Device Use While Driving
After a year of warnings, Pennsylvania police can now fine drivers $50 for using handheld devices behind the wheel under Paul Miller’s Law.
HARRISBURG, PENNSYLVANIA — Pennsylvania police began issuing $50 tickets Friday to drivers caught using handheld electronic devices behind the wheel, marking the end of a yearlong warning period under Paul Miller’s Law.
The legislation, named for a 21-year-old Lackawanna County man killed by a distracted truck driver in 2010, imposes a $50 fine plus court costs and fees for drivers using handheld cellphones and other devices not permanently installed in their vehicles. Governor Josh Shapiro signed the law in 2024 after it was championed by Miller’s mother.
Though the law took effect in June 2025, police could only issue warnings during the first year of enforcement. The transition to ticketing coincides with an aggressive driving enforcement campaign announced by state officials Tuesday.
Law Targets Distracted Driving Deaths
Paul Miller’s Law prohibits the use of handheld devices while driving or stopped for traffic, red lights and other delays. Motorists may still use cellphones to alert authorities in emergencies and may use handsfree technology to make calls, use GPS or listen to music.
The legislation includes a sentencing enhancement that can add five years to a prison term for drivers convicted of homicide by vehicle while driving distracted. Miller was killed when a distracted truck driver crossed a highway median, according to state records.
Summer Safety Campaign Launches
Beginning June 15 and running through the Independence Day holiday weekend, Pennsylvania State Police and local law enforcement will conduct checkpoints and roving patrols targeting impaired drivers. The effort receives funding through the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation’s distribution of more than $6.7 million from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration for impaired driving enforcement.
PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll said the state is calling on Pennsylvanians to drive safely as Pennsylvania prepares for the 250th anniversary celebration of the United States’ independence and high-profile sporting events, including FIFA World Cup matches and the MLB All-Star Game in Philadelphia.
“Pennsylvania is expecting millions of visitors, and many will drive, which is why we all must do our part to encourage safety this summer, and all year,” Carroll said, urging motorists to put down the phone when driving. “It’s not only dangerous, it’s now also illegal. Slow down, be kind, and never drive impaired by any substance.”
The enforcement campaign targets multiple forms of dangerous driving as Pennsylvania expects increased traffic from tourists and visitors attending major events throughout the summer months.
