A new bill would require all children younger than 10 to use booster seats and bar all those under 13 from sitting in the front seat. The pending measure also would require children as old as 13 to use a booster seat unless they meet the same size criteria.
The California state legislature is considering a bill that would prohibit teenagers under 18 from riding in the front seat of a vehicle, aiming to enhance road safety by reducing the risk of injury or death in the event of a crash. This proposed law, inspired by similar regulations in other countries, is driven by data showing that rear seats are safer for younger passengers due to the design of modern vehicles and the effectiveness of airbags. The bill has sparked debate among lawmakers and the public, with supporters arguing it could save lives, while critics express concerns about the practicality and enforcement of such a rule, as well as potential unintended consequences like increased distracted driving if families are forced to rearrange seating arrangements.