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In response to an increased number of accidents and fatalities involving distracted drivers, Pennsylvania has enacted a new distracted driving law to improve road safety and save lives. Paul Miller’s Law, effective June 5, 2025, bans the use of interactive mobile devices while driving. An interactive mobile device is defined as “a handheld 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.”

The ban on the use of interactive mobile devices while driving includes prohibiting the use of such devices when a motor vehicle is temporarily stationary because of traffic, a traffic control device, or other momentary delay. Limited exceptions to the ban on the use of interactive mobile devices while driving include the use of a system or device that is physically or electronically integrated into the vehicle and the use of a device exclusively for emergency notification purposes.

Violators of Paul Miller’s Law can be stopped by police. Until June 5, 2026, the penalty for a violation of Paul Miller’s Law is a written warning. After June 5, 2026, the penalty for a violation of Paul Miller’s Law is a summary offense.

In response to Paul Miller’s Law, employers should consider adopting a hands-free driving policy as part of an employee handbook or as a standalone agreement. A hands-free driving policy helps ensure compliance with the law, promotes employee safety, and minimizes liability. If you have questions about Paul Miller’s Law, or if you want to learn more about a hands-free driving policy, please do not hesitate to contact any of the Labor and Employment Law Attorneys of Appel Yost LLP.