This bill amends Section 32-5-222 of the Code of Alabama 1975, which pertains to the use of child passenger restraint systems and seatbelts in motor vehicles. The bill introduces several changes to the existing law, including the requirement for children to use specific types of child passenger restraint systems based on their age and weight. Notably, the bill increases the age and weight requirements for different types of child restraints: rear-facing seats are to be used until a child is at least two years old or weighs 35 pounds, forward-facing seats until the child is at least five years old or weighs 65 pounds, and booster seats until the child is at least six years old and meets certain conditions regarding fit. Additionally, the bill recommends that children under 13 should ride in the back seat when possible.

The bill also revises the penalties for non-compliance with the child passenger restraint requirements. It establishes a graduated fine system for repeat violations within a five-year period, starting at $25 for a first offense and increasing to $150 for four or more violations. A first offense may be dismissed upon proof of acquiring an appropriate child restraint system. Furthermore, the bill stipulates that $15 of each fine is to be used to provide vouchers for child restraint systems to families with limited income. The bill requires attendance at a court hearing for violations, which cannot be waived, and outlines the points to be assessed by the Department of Public Safety for violations. The bill also includes provisions for maintaining statistical information on traffic stops of minorities. The act is set to become effective on October 1, 2024.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 32-5-222, 32-5-222
Engrossed: 32-5-222, 32-5-222