Starting June 5, 2026, Pennsylvania drivers can be fined for using a hand-held mobile device while operating a vehicle under the state’s new distracted driving law, known as Paul Miller’s Law.
The law comes as Pennsylvania prepares for a busy summer travel season and several high-profile events expected to bring millions of visitors to the Commonwealth. State officials are encouraging all drivers to stay focused, drive sober, and avoid distractions behind the wheel.
Whether you’re a daily commuter, operate a company vehicle, or manage employees who drive for work, understanding this law can help you avoid violations and improve roadway safety.
Here’s what you need to know.
What Is Paul Miller’s Law?
Paul Miller’s Law makes it illegal for drivers to hold or use a hand-held mobile device while driving, even when stopped temporarily at a red light, in traffic, or during roadway delays.
Drivers may still:
- Use hands-free technology
- Make calls through Bluetooth or integrated vehicle systems
- Use GPS navigation
- Listen to music or podcasts
- Contact emergency services when necessary
Beginning June 5, drivers convicted under the law face a $50 fine, in addition to court costs and fees.
The law is named after Paul Miller Jr., who was killed by a distracted driver in 2010. Since then, his mother, Eileen Miller, has become a leading advocate for stronger distracted driving laws nationwide.
Why Employers Should Pay Attention
Many businesses rely on employees who drive as part of their job, even if they don’t hold a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).
Examples include:
- Service technicians
- Electricians and plumbers
- HVAC contractors
- Utility workers
- Sales representatives
- Healthcare workers
- Delivery drivers
- Municipal employees
- Landscaping and construction crews
For these employers, distracted driving incidents can lead to:
- Employee injuries
- Vehicle damage
- Liability claims
- Increased insurance costs
- Lost productivity
- Reputational harm
Now is an ideal time to review company vehicle policies and reinforce expectations regarding cell phone use while driving.
Increased Traffic Enforcement This Summer
Pennsylvania State Police and local law enforcement agencies will increase enforcement efforts throughout the summer.
Fourth of July Impaired Driving Campaign
Beginning June 15 and continuing through the Fourth of July holiday period, law enforcement agencies will conduct:
- Sobriety checkpoints
- Roving patrols
- Targeted impaired driving enforcement
Aggressive Driving Enforcement Wave
From July 6 through August 16, enforcement efforts will focus on:
- Speeding
- Tailgating
- Red-light violations
- Distracted driving
- Pedestrian safety
Drivers should expect a stronger law enforcement presence on Pennsylvania roadways during these campaigns.
Summer Travel Means More Vehicles on the Road
Pennsylvania is expected to see increased travel this summer due to several major events, including:
- FIFA World Cup 26™ activities
- MLB All-Star Game events
- America250PA celebrations
The Pennsylvania Turnpike alone projects more than 58 million travelers this summer. More vehicles on the road often means heavier traffic, increased congestion, and greater opportunities for distracted driving incidents.
Driver License Compliance Matters
For employers with drivers operating company vehicles, maintaining accurate driver records is an important part of risk management.
Regularly reviewing:
- Driver’s license status
- License renewals
- Driving record changes
- Motor Vehicle Reports (MVRs)
- Driver eligibility requirements
can help organizations identify potential concerns before they become costly problems.
A suspended, expired, or otherwise invalid license can create significant liability exposure when employees drive on behalf of the company.
How CNS Licensing Can Help
Managing employee driver records can be challenging, especially for organizations with multiple drivers or locations.
CNS Licensing Services can help employers simplify driver management by assisting with:
- Driver license monitoring
- Motor Vehicle Report (MVR) procurement
- License renewals and updates
- Driver record management
- New hire driver screening support
- Licensing-related compliance assistance
Whether you manage five drivers or fifty, CNS Licensing can help you stay organized, reduce risk, and maintain confidence that your drivers remain properly licensed. Call (717) 625-7355 or email at info@cnslicensing.com.
