FL S0454

Expands child restraint requirements to include children age 7 and younger who are less than 4 feet 9 inches in height, effective January 1, 2015.

Requires child restraint devices to be appropriate for the child's height and weight and comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 213.

Permits courts to dismiss a first violation charge if the operator proves a federally approved child restraint device has been purchased or obtained.

Establishes exceptions for children ages 4-7 when a safety belt is used in emergency situations or when a health professional documents medical necessity.

Creates a grace period from July 1, 2014 to December 31, 2014 during which law enforcement shall issue warnings and educational literature instead of citations for violations of the new requirements.