OH SB44

Allows law enforcement officers to stop vehicles and issue citations for violations of child booster seat requirements (division C) and child seat belt requirements for ages 8-15 (division D) as primary offenses, rather than secondary offenses requiring another violation.

Removes the prohibition that prevented failure to secure a child in a car seat, booster seat, or seat belt from being used as evidence in criminal proceedings other than violations of the child restraint law itself.

Establishes a child highway safety fund financed by fines from child restraint violations, to be used by the department of health for pediatric trauma center designation and a public education program on proper use of child restraint systems and booster seats.

Creates penalties of $25-$75 fine for first-time violations (minor misdemeanor) and fourth-degree misdemeanor for repeat offenders with prior convictions.

Maintains exemptions for taxicabs, public safety vehicles, emergency situations, and children with medical conditions documented by physician or chiropractor affidavit.