3/17/04-The Senate rejected a bill that would make it easier for police to enforce the state’s law for mandatory seat-belt use.
Senate lawmakers voted 19-10 against the bill – SB1024 – that would create a primary law for seat-belt enforcement. Currently, police can ticket drivers only after stopping a vehicle for another traffic violation.
Failure to pass the seat-belt provision could cost the state 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.

3/4/04-The Senate Natural Resources and Transportation Committee voted 4-3 Feb. 3 to advance a measure that would create a primary law for seat-belt enforcement.
Under SB1024, sponsored by Sen. Toni Hellon, R-Tucson, would permit police to pull over drivers who aren’t buckled up. 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 SB1024.
The bill has been forwarded to the Senate Rules Committee. For Senate bill status, call (602) 542-3559.

1/22/04-Drivers caught not wearing their seat belts could be pulled over under legislation in the Senate.
Sen. Toni Hellon, 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.
Arizona is one of about 30 states without a primary seat-belt law.
The fine for not buckling up is $23. That amount would not change under SB1024.
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 Senate bill status, call (602) 542-3559.
An identical House bill – HB2112 – is also awaiting assignment.