Child Passenger Restraint Law

Important Facts to Know

Legislative Bill LB1073 (PDF) was signed into law by Governor Johanns and went into effect on July 20, 2002.

Changes included:

• All children up to six years of age must ride in a child passenger restraint system. (Primary enforcement law)
• Children six years of age and less than sixteen years of age must ride using an occupant protection system. (Secondary enforcement law)
• If the driver holds a provisional operator's permit (POP) or a school permit, all passengers must ride using an occupant protection system. (Secondary enforcement law)
• The "proof of purchase or rental" waiver has been eliminated.
• The Department of Motor Vehicles shall develop a public information campaign which includes the availability of distribution and discount programs for restraint systems.

Important items that remain in effect:

• The child passenger restraint system must be correctly installed.
• Exceptions: taxis, mopeds, motorcycles, and any motor vehicle designated by the manufacturer as a 1963 year model or earlier which is not equipped with an occupant protection system.
• The medical exemption remains. A licensed physician must sign a statement identifying the child and stating the grounds for the waiver.
• Drivers of emergency vehicles are exempt.
• Foster care providers must also transport children in restraints. Failure to do so will result in the revocation or suspension of the foster care license.

View LB1073 online (PDF) or request a copy of the bill by calling the Legislative Hotline at (800) 742-7456 or the 24-hour Request Line at (402) 471-2877.