In 2006, several new laws went into effect in the State of Kansas including the Child Passenger Safety Act. The Child Passenger Safety Act required that Kansas Highway Patrol officers begin issuing warnings for violations of the booster seat law.
On July 1, 2007, troopers began issuing citations for violations of this law. These citations carry a mandatory $60 fine plus court costs. Additionally, violations of this law are considered primary offenses which allow for law enforcement officers to stop a vehicle for violations of this law.
The Child Passenger Safety Act requires four things:
*Children under the age of one year must ride in a rear-facing child seat until they reach at least one year of age and weigh at least 20 pounds.
*All children ages one, two and three years must be properly restrained in a forward-facing child seat.
*Children ages four, five, six and seven are required to ride in a booster seat unless the child weighs over 80 pounds, is taller than 4 feet 9inches or if only a lap belt is available in the automobile.
*All children ages eight through 13 must be protected by a seat belt.
If a person is cited for violations of the Child Passenger Safety Act, and will show proof that they are in compliance with the act, then, by statute, the $60 fine will be waived. However, pursuant to statute, the person in violation will still be responsible for court costs.
If you have questions or need further information please call the Cowley County Attorney’s office at either 221-5485 or 441-4540. Information may also be obtained from www.kansasboosterseat.org or by calling either Safe Kids Kansas at (785) 296-0351 or Kansas Safety Belt Education Office at (800) 416-2522.
(Editor’s note: The above information was submitted by Cowley County Attorney Christopher Smith as a public service. Submissions from Smith, on various topics, will appear on NewsCow from time to time.)
