NTSB CHAIRMAN SUPPORTS THE NATIONAL SAFE KIDS CAMPAIGN'S PROGRAM TO RATE STATES ON THE QUALITY OF CHILD PASSENGER SAFETY LAWS

The Safety Board has previously called upon the states to strengthen their child passenger protection laws as a result of a 1996 safety study on the performance and use of child safety seats, seat belts, and air bags for children in passenger vehicles. In addition the Board has emphasized the importance of providing one level of safety - the highest level - for children.

Specifically, the Board has recommended that:

• All children under 4 should be required to be in child restraints that are appropriate for their age, height, and weight
• Children ages 4 through 8 should be required to use booster seats
• Substitution of lap/shoulder belts should not be permitted for children under age 8
• All children under age 13 should be required to ride safely in the back seat, if a seat position is available

"Today's announcement by the National Safe Kids Campaign clearly identifies the deficiencies in each State's law," said Acting Chairman Carol Carmody, "and shows that, with one exception, none of the States have fulfilled this most basic responsibility to our youngest and most vulnerable citizens. I am encouraged that Safe Kids is committing to work over the next five years to strengthen the existing State laws."

The Safety Board has included child and youth safety in transportation on its list of Most Wanted Safety Improvements. Acting Chairman Carmody took exception to the National Safe Kids Campaign rating of Florida with an above average grade because it does not require children between the ages of 4 and 8 to be restrained in booster seats.

NTSB press contact: Keith Holloway, 202-314-6100