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Pennsylvania's Paul Miller Law, which prohibits drivers from using handheld cell phones while driving, is now being enforced with fines. Starting Saturday (June 6), drivers caught using or touching their phones will face a $50 fine, marking the end of a year-long warning period. The law, named after Paul Miller, a 21-year-old who died in a distracted driving crash in 2010, aims to reduce distracted driving incidents across the state.
The legislation, signed by Governor Josh Shapiro, makes it illegal to use a handheld phone while driving, even when stopped at red lights or in traffic. According to WGAL, exceptions are made for emergency calls and hands-free technology use for navigation or music.
Fritzi Schreffler, a spokesperson for PennDOT, emphasized the importance of the law, stating, "It should be a no-brainer not to do these behaviors." NBC Philadelphia reported that the law also requires law enforcement to collect data on traffic stops to prevent bias, including details on race, ethnicity, and gender.
The Harrisburg Bureau of Police noted that distracted driving has been a significant factor in many serious and fatal crashes. The law is intended to build on existing ordinances that prohibit texting while driving. As ABC27 highlighted, Paul Miller’s mother, Eileen, expressed that the law is for every family in Pennsylvania to prevent tragedies like her son's.
The law's enforcement underscores the state's commitment to reducing distracted driving and enhancing road safety. For more information on distracted driving, visit PennDOT's website.