2/16/07-The House voted 39-33 to kill a Senate-approved bill that would have created a primary law for seat-belt enforcement.
Currently, law enforcement can ticket drivers and passengers age 19 or older for seat-belt violations only after stopping vehicles for another traffic violation. However, such violations are a primary offense for anyone under the age of 19.
Sponsored by Sen. Pat Jones, D-Holladay, SB36 would have permitted police to pull over drivers who are not buckled up.
The bill included a sunset provision to primary enforcement that would cause the law to expire in July 2010. At that time, transportation safety officials would have re-evaluated its impact.

2/14/07-The House Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice Committee voted 5-4 to advance a bill that would permit police in the state to pull over drivers who are not buckled up.
Currently, law enforcement can ticket drivers and passengers age 19 or older for seat-belt violations only after stopping vehicles for another traffic violation. However, such violations are a primary offense for anyone under the age of 19.
Sponsored by Sen. Pat Jones, D-Holladay, SB36 would create a primary law for seat-belt enforcement.
The bill includes a sunset provision to primary enforcement that would cause the law to expire in July 2010. At that time, transportation safety officials would re-evaluate its impact.
The bill has been sent to the full House. If approved there, it would head to the governor's desk. The Senate already approved it.
For bill status, call (801) 538-1035.