NM SB313

Removes existing legal protections that prevent failure to use a child passenger restraint device or safety belt from being considered fault or negligence in civil cases

Eliminates provisions that prohibited courts from limiting or apportioning damages based on a passenger's failure to wear a safety belt or use a child restraint

Amends two sections of New Mexico law: Section 66-7-369 (Child Passenger Restraint) and Section 66-7-373 (Enforcement Programs under the Safety Belt Use Act)

Retains all existing requirements for child restraints by age and weight, including rear-facing seats for children under one year, child seats for ages 1-4 or under 40 pounds, and booster seats for ages 5-6 or under 60 pounds

Allows evidence of seat belt or child restraint non-use to be introduced in personal injury lawsuits to establish comparative fault and potentially reduce damage awards