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I have always used my parking brake at stoplights. I figure it’s good to exercise the parking brake to keep the cable from binding up, especially on automatics.

Apparently using a parking brake at stoplights is uncommon in America though widely practiced in Europe, but I was reading on the new cars with automatic parking brakes you can hit the gas peddle to release the parking brake, and can this help starting up steep hills if your car doesn’t have hill start assist.

As Google AI says …

Using the parking brake (handbrake) at traffic lights is generally not required by law, but it is considered best practice for safety, especially on hills, when stopped for more than 8-10 seconds, or to prevent rolling. It secures the vehicle, prevents rear-end collision damage, and reduces leg fatigue in manual cars. 

Reasons to Use the Parking Brake at Traffic Lights:

• Safety on Hills: It prevents the vehicle from rolling backward when moving off on a steep incline.
• Preventing Rear-End Collisions: If hit from behind, a secured handbrake helps prevent your car from being pushed forward into traffic or pedestrians.
• Resting Legs/Manual Transmission: It allows you to take your foot off the brake and clutch, relieving fatigue during long waits.
• Avoiding Dazzling Drivers: It prevents you from keeping your foot on the brake pedal, which can blind the driver behind you with bright brake lights. 

When You Should Use It:

• On steep hills: Mandatory for safe, controlled, no-roll starts.
• Long traffic light stops: If you know the light takes a long time.
• Busy, close-traffic scenarios: To prevent accidental rolling. 

When It Is Unnecessary:

• Short stops on flat roads: Holding the foot brake is generally sufficient.
• Automatic cars: While safe, it is not mandatory to stop the car from rolling unless on a significant hill. 

Using the handbrake every single time can sometimes cause distraction, so the key is to use it when it enhances safety, such as on hills or long, busy stops.