Changes To Enforcement Of Cell Phone Hands-Free Law

HARRISBURG – Beginning today, Paul Miller’s Law, which is the cell phone hands-free law in PA changes the enforcement component of the law. For the past year, law enforcement officers were able to stop motorists for operating motor vehicles while utilizing cell phones, however they were only able to issue a written warning for the violation. Starting today, officers will be able to stop motorists and issue a $50 citation, plus court costs and fees, for using a cell phone while driving. The law is a primary offense, which means law enforcement officers can stop and cite drivers solely for using a handheld device. Drivers may not use a handheld device for texting, emailing, or browsing the internet. Drivers may not hold a phone during calls, while stopped at red lights or in traffic. Drivers are permitted to use hands-free devices like Bluetooth and voice activated systems or can contact 911 for emergencies. The law is named for Paul Miller, who was killed in a crash with a tractor trailer in 2010 in Monroe County as the result of a distracted driver who reached for their phone while driving.