HB 2700 Summary

• Requires children under two years of age to be in rear-facing child restraint systems unless the child weighs at least 40 pounds or is at least 40 inches tall, in which case a forward-facing system may be used.

• Clarifies that all child restraint systems must comply with manufacturer height and weight limits and federal safety standards (49 CFR 571.213).

• Maintains existing civil penalty of $50 for violations, with penalties deposited into the child restraint fund for purchasing and distributing car seats to eligible individuals.

• Allows responsible agencies (hospitals, domestic violence shelters, homeless shelters, health clinics) to lend car seats at no charge to indigent persons who need them.

• Caps the child restraint fund at $20,000, with excess collections deposited into the Arizona highway user revenue fund.