New Cumberland Police Department Issues Crime Watch Alert: Paul Miller's Law Takes Effect June 5th

NEW CUMBERLAND, PA – The New Cumberland Police Department reminds all motorists in our community that a new distracted driving law, commonly known as Paul Miller's Law, will officially take effect on Wednesday, June 5, 2025. This critical legislation aims to enhance road safety by prohibiting the use of handheld interactive mobile devices while operating a motor vehicle in Pennsylvania.

Paul Miller's Law, enacted in memory of Paul Miller Jr., who tragically lost his life in a distracted driving crash, makes it a primary offense to use any handheld interactive mobile device while driving. This includes, but is not limited to, cell phones, smartphones, tablets, and portable computers. The law specifically prohibits:

• Holding an interactive mobile device with at least one hand or supporting it with another part of the body.
• Dialing or answering an interactive mobile device by pressing more than a single button.
• Reaching for an interactive mobile device in a way that requires the driver to maneuver out of a seated, seat-belted driving position.

What this means for New Cumberland drivers:

• Hands-Free is the Law: As of June 5th, it will be illegal to hold or physically use your phone or other interactive mobile devices while driving, even if you are stopped at a red light or in traffic.
• One-Year Warning Period: For the first 12 months after the law takes effect (until June 5, 2026), officers will issue written warnings for violations of Paul Miller's Law.
• Future Penalties: After the warning period, violations will result in a summary offense with a $50 fine, plus court costs and other applicable fees.
• Severe Consequences for Distracted Driving: Drivers convicted of homicide by vehicle while distracted may face an additional sentence of up to five years in prison.
• Exceptions: You may still use an interactive mobile device hands-free (e.g., via voice commands or a mounted device). An emergency use exception is also permitted if it's necessary to communicate with law enforcement or emergency services to prevent injury to persons or property. You may also use your device if you move your vehicle safely to the side of or off a highway and halt in a stationary location.

The New Cumberland Police Department urges all residents and visitors to familiarize themselves with this new law. Distracted driving is a serious issue that contributes to a significant number of crashes, injuries, and fatalities on our roadways. By putting down your device, you are not only complying with the law but also actively contributing to the safety of yourself and everyone else on the road.

Let's work together to make our roads safer. Drive responsibly and hands-free.

For more information on Paul Miller's Law and distracted driving, please visit the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) website.