In our previous alert, we brought you up to date on the status of child passenger safety legislation, House Bill No. 462.

It may be heard in the House Transportation and Defense Committee sometime this week. This hearing would be the bill’s first step on its way to becoming a law. It has not been scheduled as of today.

This bill not only protects children, but it also makes Idaho eligible to receive Section 405 funding totaling an estimated $250,000 annually. These funds would be used to increase the use of seat belts and child safety seats. Idaho has been ineligible for these funds due to the current vehicle code.

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When installed properly, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that child restraint systems reduce fatal injuries by 71 percent for infants and 54 percent for toddlers in passenger cars and by nearly 60 percent for infants and toddlers in sport utility vehicles, pickup trucks and vans.

Unlike most states, Idaho has two exceptions in its vehicle code regarding child safety seats. A child is allowed to be unrestrained while the vehicle is in operation:

1. If all vehicle seat belts are already in use (e.g. children can ride in the back of a pickup truck, unrestrained)
2. To be removed to attend to his physical needs (e.g. nursing, changing diapers, etc.)

House Bill No. 462 is being reviewed by the House Transportation & Defense Committee, which proposes to remove these exceptions. The bill protects our children and sets strict guidelines requiring the use of child safety seats. But, opposition remains.

Pick up the Phone and Save a Child’s Life

Please contact members of the House Transportation & Defense Committee to voice your support for House Bill No. 462.

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