Senate Bill 537 aims to enhance regulations surrounding airbags in motor vehicles by expanding prohibitions related to previously deployed, nonfunctional, and counterfeit airbags. The bill renumbers and amends existing statutes, specifically 347.475, to include new definitions for "nonfunctional airbag" and "counterfeit airbag," while also creating new prohibitions against importing, manufacturing, or selling these types of airbags. The bill retains the existing penalties for first offenses, which include a fine of up to $5,000 or imprisonment for up to one year, but introduces increased penalties for repeat offenses and those resulting in bodily harm or death.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that certain individuals, such as those working in law enforcement or motor vehicle dealerships, may be exempt from these prohibitions under specific circumstances. It also establishes a new penalty structure for violations of the airbag regulations, categorizing them as felonies based on the severity of the offense, with harsher penalties for violations that lead to bodily harm or death. Overall, the bill seeks to improve safety standards and accountability in the sale and installation of airbags in vehicles.

Statutes affected:
Text as Enrolled: 347.475(2), 347.475, 347.50(2), 347.50
Bill Text: 347.475(2), 347.475, 347.50(2), 347.50