05/06/2026
Residents, do not forget the new hands free law will begin to be enforced next month. Please drive safely and keep your phones down, or mounted securely and on bluetooth!
As of June 5, 2025, Pennsylvania’s "Paul Miller’s Law" prohibits drivers from holding or using a hand-held interactive mobile device while driving or stopped in traffic.
Drivers must use hands-free technology (Bluetooth, speakerphone, or mounts). Violations result in warnings until June 5, 2026, after which a $50 fine plus costs applies.
Key Aspects
Prohibited: Holding a phone to talk, texting, emailing, searching the internet, or holding a device to watch videos while driving or at a red light.
What is Allowed: Using a phone with hands-free technology (Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, or a mounted device). A single tap or swipe is allowed to start or end a conversation.
Emergency Exception: Using a phone to call 911 or report an emergency is permitted.
Penalties:June 5, 2025 – June 4, 2026: Law enforcement will issue written warnings.
June 5, 2026 onwards: A summary offense with a $50 fine, plus court costs and fees.
No Points: Convictions will not result in points on your license.
Enforcement: This is a primary law, meaning police can pull you over solely for holding a phone.
Important Distinctions
Parking Exception: The law does not apply if the vehicle is safely parked on the side of or off the highway.
Commercial Drivers: Non-commercial drivers do not get points, but commercial drivers may have the violation recorded on their record.
Under 18: Drivers with learner’s permits or junior licenses are already prohibited from using a phone while driving, even hands-free.
Finally. This information is not proprietary to McKees Rocks. This is statewide and will be enforced by every city, township and borough in the commonwealth. It’s not a comparison post to which and what will be enforced and the bad driving habits of individuals that are not directly witnessed by law enforcement. It is simply an advisory post that the grace period regarding this new law will be over soon.