Pennsylvania to ban handheld cellphone use while driving
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Police could soon pull you over for simply holding a phone while driving in Pennsylvania, under legislation awaiting the governor's signature.
The big picture: Pennsylvania is expected to join more than 30 states in banning nearly all uses of handheld cellphones while driving. It's part of an effort to further crack down on accidents caused by distracted driving.
- More than 3,300 deaths were linked to distracted driving in 2022, per the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
How it works: While it's already illegal to text and drive in Pennsylvania, the bill — which Gov. Josh Shapiro is expected to sign soon — aims to close a loophole that permits other uses of smartphones and handheld devices while driving, the Pennsylvania Capital-Star reports.
- The law, carrying $50 fines, applies to drivers sitting in traffic or stopped at a traffic light, per WHYY.
- Exceptions include when using hand-free technology like Bluetooth.
Context: The bill, which was amended before passing both chambers with bipartisan support, was sponsored by Sen. Rosemary Brown, a Republican in Monroe.
- She put the bill forward following the death of Paul Miller Jr., a constituent who died in a tractor-trailer crash in 2010.
Zoom in: The bill also includes a provision that would require police departments to track and report traffic stops, including information on drivers' race and gender and whether they were cited and had their vehicles searched.
What they're saying: Supporters believe the bill will make it safer for motorists traveling across Pennsylvania, especially with the growing availability of smartphones and other electronic devices.
Critics say these types of driving infractions are already covered by the state's careless and reckless driving laws, and the new law could be tough for police to enforce.
- The ACLU of Pennsylvania called the new measure a "thinly veiled attempt" to give police officers more power. They fear it could increase racial disparities.
What's ahead: The bill would take effect after a yearlong grace period, during which police officers must issue warnings to distracted drivers.