Legislation clarifies car safety seat standards to help parents keep kids safe
LANSING, Mich., March 15, 2024 — The Michigan Senate passed House Bills 4511 and 4512, sponsored by state Reps. Carrie A. Rheingans (D-Ann Arbor) and John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming), respectively. The bills clarify car safety seat standards, aligning Michigan statute with federal law and regulations.
“Vehicle crashes are one of the leading causes of death among children,” Fitzgerald said. “This law updates Michigan’s car seat safety standards so that child passengers travel safely and sit properly. It will help to ensure that young children have safe passage to school, pediatrician appointments, Grandma’s house and the playground.”
“As a mom, it is my job to keep my daughter safe, and as a legislator, it is my job to ensure legislation is in place to protect Michigan’s kids,” Rheingans said. “I am elated that this car seat update is becoming law. This officially aligns Michigan’s car seat standards with the current federal and manufacturer recommendations. The new changes will take into account height and weight, not just age — giving parents a clear indication of when Michigan kids have outgrown their car seat.”
The bills now go to Gov. Gretchen Whitmer for her to sign into law.
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