5/17/04-A bill that sought to create a primary law for seat-belt enforcement has died.
HB2112, sponsored by Rep. Steve Huffman, R-Tucson, remained in four committees at the close of the session May 14, effectively killing it for the year.
Under the bill, drivers caught not wearing their seat belts could be pulled over. Currently, police can ticket drivers only after stopping a vehicle for another traffic violation.
The fine for not buckling up is $23. That amount would not have changed under the proposal.

3/4/04-A bill that would create a primary law for seat-belt enforcement has been forwarded to four committees.
Under HB2112, sponsored by Rep. Steve Huffman, R-Tucson, drivers caught not wearing their seat belts could be pulled over. Currently, police can ticket drivers only after stopping a vehicle for another traffic violation.
The fine for not buckling up is $23. That amount would not change under the proposal.
The bill is under review in the House Government and Retirement, Rules, Transportation and Utilities and Municipalities committees.
For House bill status, call (602) 926-4221.

1/22/04-Drivers caught not wearing their seat belts could be pulled over under legislation in the House.
Rep. Steve Huffman, R-Tucson, has introduced a bill that would create a primary law for seat-belt enforcement. Currently, police can ticket drivers only after stopping a vehicle for another traffic violation.
The fine for not buckling up is $23. That amount would not change under HB2112.
If signed into law, the regulation would put the state in line for additional funding from the federal government.
An incentive program recently introduced in Congress encourages states to increase seat-belt enforcement. The program would give states three years to enact a primary seat-belt law or reach a rate of usage of at least 90 percent. Failure to do one or the other would result in a loss of up to 4 percent of federal highway funds to the state.
In Arizona, that could translate into $12.5 million.
The bill is awaiting assignment to a committee. For House bill status, call (602) 926-4221.
An identical Senate bill – SB1024 – is also awaiting assignment.