Event Planned to Help Minnesotans Adjust to New State Law

Rochester, MN (KROC-AM News)- There’s an event planned next week in Rochester to help Minnesotans adjust to a new state law.

Read More: New Minnesota Car Seat Law Starts August 1

The new law took effect on August 1. It’s aimed to improve the safety of children riding in vehicles across the state.

Minnesota’s new child car seat statute classifies requirements for child seating in vehicles by age as well as the passenger’s height and weight. Previously, state statute required drivers to only follow a car seat manufacturer’s instructions regarding height and weight.

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Officials say the new law is modeled after recommendations made by American Academy of Pediatrics and prevents young passengers from being prematurely advanced to a less restrictive seat.

Minnesota’s Child Passenger safety law includes the following seating requirements:

Birth to at least 2 years old:

Rear-facing in an infant or convertible child safety seat.

At least 2 years old AND has outgrown the rear-facing seat with internal harness by height or weight:

Forward-facing with an internal harness.

4 years old AND has outgrown the forward-facing seat with internal harness by height or weight:

Ride restrained in a belt-positioning booster seat using the lap belt and shoulder belt.

9 years old or has outgrown the booster seat AND the child can pass the five-step test that demonstrates how the seat belt fits correctly:

Ride restrained with a lap belt and shoulder belt secured correctly on the vehicle seat.

The new law also requires vehicle passengers under the age of 13 be required to sit in the back seat of a vehicle if possible.

Event to Help Minnesotans With New State Car Seat Law Happening Wednesday in Rochester

Olmsted County Public Health Services is holding an event on Wednesday, Aug. 15 to help area residents ensure they’re complying with the new law. It’s happening at Graham Park at Crawford Hall.

A news release issued by the county says Child passenger safety technicians will be on site to help individuals correctly install car seats in compliance with the new state law.

45-minute appointments begin at 2:30 p.m. Anyone interested in attending is required to sign up in advance by emailing OCPHS Car Seat Services. Only one car is allowed per appointment.