Connecticut House Bill HB06054

Connecticut 2017 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/19/17
• Refer: 1/19/17

Caption

An Act Requiring Back Seat Passengers In A Motor Vehicle To Wear Seat Belts.

Impact

If enacted, HB06054 would amend section 14-100a of the general statutes, thereby extending the requirement for seat belt use, which has been primarily aimed at front seat occupants, to those occupying back seats. This change would necessitate updates to enforcement policies for law enforcement agencies, as they would need to monitor compliance among back seat passengers, thereby potentially impacting traffic violation statistics and related fines. It is expected that the public would eventually adapt to this new norm, contributing to overall safety improvements on the roads.

Summary

House Bill 06054 is a proposed law intending to enhance passenger safety in vehicles by mandating that all back seat passengers wear seat belts while the vehicle is in operation on public highways. This legislation reflects ongoing efforts to reduce injuries and fatalities resulting from auto accidents by ensuring that all occupants, not just front seat passengers, are protected in the event of a crash. The proposal aims to encourage responsible behavior among passengers and promote a culture of safety in motor vehicle usage.

Contention

Discussions surrounding HB06054 may center on the balance between personal freedom and public safety. Advocates for the bill argue that it is a necessary step toward reducing preventable injuries and fatalities among passengers, citing data that correlates the use of seat belts with lower mortality rates in vehicle accidents. Opponents may raise concerns about government overreach and personal choice, questioning whether legislation should compel individuals to wear seat belts when they are seated in the back. Stakeholders might emphasize the need for public awareness campaigns instead of legislative mandates.