State Rep. Amy Loudenbeck (R-Clinton), state Rep. Chris Taylor (D-Madison) and state Sen. Luther Olsen (R-Ripon) circulated legislation Sept. 16 updating Wisconsin’s infant passenger safety laws by requiring infants to be placed in rear-facing car seats until age 2.

This follows the recommendations of both the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

“When it comes to our children and their safety – it doesn’t matter if you’re a Republican or a Democrat, we all want to do what’s best for them,” said Loudenbeck.  “Studies show that children under the age of 2 are 75 percent less likely to be severely injured or killed in a crash if riding in a rear-facing seat.  This is common sense legislation.”

“Hands down, this is one of the most important bills before the Legislature this session.  This bill will save children’s lives,” said Taylor.  “As a mother of two sons, purchasing and installing car seats for your newborn can be stressful – it’s a huge responsibility that carries life and death consequences if not done properly.  Our laws must be consistent with the safest standards.”

This legislation is supported by Safe Kids Wisconsin, Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin, American Family Children’s Hospital, Wisconsin Professional Police Association and AAA Wisconsin.

“By updating Wisconsin’s passenger safety laws for infants we are helping to protect our precious children and grandchildren,” said Olsen. “Ensuring parents have the best information available to them to protect their children is of the utmost importance.”