The proposed bill, General Assembly Committee Bill No. 1146, aims to enhance child safety in motor vehicles by updating the regulations surrounding child restraint systems. Key changes include raising the age requirement for rear-facing child restraint systems from under two years to under three years, and establishing new weight thresholds for different age groups. Specifically, children under three years must ride rear-facing, while those under five but at least three years old can ride either rear-facing or forward-facing, provided they meet the weight criteria. Additionally, children under eight years old must use a child restraint system or booster seat that is appropriate for their weight and height, as specified by the manufacturer.

The bill also introduces penalties for violations of these provisions, categorizing them as infractions or misdemeanors depending on the number of offenses. First-time violators may have their fines waived if they provide proof of acquiring an appropriate child restraint system within 14 days of the violation. Furthermore, individuals who commit first or second violations will be required to attend a child car seat safety course, with potential license suspension for non-compliance. The bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2025, and aims to ensure that children are safely secured in vehicles according to updated safety standards.