Connecticut House Bill HB06720

Connecticut 2017 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/24/17
• Refer: 1/24/17

Caption

An Act Concerning Rear-facing Child Restraint Systems For Children Transported In Motor Vehicles.

Impact

The bill serves a vital purpose in public safety by stipulating clear guidelines for transporting children in vehicles. By enforcing the use of rear-facing child restraints for toddlers, the legislation seeks to reduce the risk of injury in the event of an accident. This aligns with the standards recommended by safety organizations like the American Academy of Pediatrics, which advocates for children to remain in rear-facing car seats as long as possible until they reach the maximum weight or height limits set by the car seat manufacturer.

Summary

House Bill 6720 is an act concerning the use of rear-facing child restraint systems for children transported in motor vehicles within the state. The bill mandates that any person transporting a child under the age of two must provide a rear-facing child restraint system, unless the child exceeds a weight of forty pounds. This regulation aims to enhance the safety of young children in vehicles, drawing attention to the critical need for proper safety measures during transportation.

Contention

While the bill broadly aims to protect children, there may be concerns from parents regarding the practicality and implications of enforcing such a measure. Some may argue that the specific weight limit could be restrictive and potentially lead to confusion about the proper usage of different restraint systems. Additionally, there could be discussions around the responsibilities of parents and guardians in adhering to this regulation, possibly leading to debates on enforcement mechanisms and penalties for non-compliance.