New Booster Seat Law

Submitted by Laura Shallow

What’s up with the new Booster Seat Law in Wisconsin?

• Children less than a year old or less than 20 pounds must be REAR FACING in the BACK SEAT.

• Children at least one year old and less than 40 pounds must be FORWARD FACING in the BACK SEAT. (Children can stay rear facing even longer than one year, but one year is the minimum for forward facing.)

• Children from age 4 to 8, between 40 and 80 pounds, or not more than 4’9” must be in a booster seat in the BACK SEAT.

• After age 8, and over 4’9” use vehicle seat belts in the BACK SEAT.
  This new law takes effect on June 1, 2006. You may call your local Health Department with any questions. To find the health department in your area, please visit http://dhfs.wisconsin.gov/localhealth.