8/5/03-A bill that would have permitted police to pull over drivers for failure to wear a seat belt is dead for the year.
Under current law, police can issue seat-belt citations only if they stop drivers for another traffic violation.
S447 called for permitting police to pull over drivers if they are not buckled up. Under the proposal, drivers found in violation could be fined $30, down from the current $75.
The bill was in the Senate judiciary committee when the regular session ended July 15.

5/28/03-A Senate lawmaker is pushing legislation that that would permit police to pull over drivers for failure to wear a seat belt.
Under current law, police can issue seat-belt citations only if they stop drivers for another traffic violation.
With new authority, police can pull over drivers if they are not buckled up.
S447, sponsored by Sen. Leo Blais, R-Coventry, is in the Senate Committee on Judiciary. For bill status, call (401) 751-8833.