AB 435: Vehicles: child passenger restraints.

The bill aims to improve child passenger restraint systems in vehicles. It requires children under 16 years of age to be properly secured in a safety belt or child passenger restraint system. However, it also allows children 8 years of age or older who are 4 feet 9 inches or taller to be restrained by a safety belt instead of a child passenger restraint system. The bill also prohibits drivers from operating a limousine or taxicab unless the operator and passengers 8 years of age or older are properly restrained by a safety belt. Starting January 1, 2027, the bill will define "properly restrained by a safety belt" to include a 5-step test that ensures the child's safety. The bill requires no reimbursement from the state for certain costs.