Vehicles: child passenger restraints.

Assembly Member Wilson's vehicle safety legislation redefines proper seatbelt restraint requirements in California through a new "5-Step test" that will take effect January 1, 2027. The test requires that passengers sit fully back against the auto seat with knees bent over the edge, while ensuring the shoulder belt crosses the center of the chest and the lap belt remains low on the thighs. Passengers must also maintain this position throughout their journey.

The measure updates restraint standards across multiple vehicle types, including personal vehicles, buses, limousines, and emergency vehicles. For children under 16, parents and guardians must secure them using either the 5-Step test criteria or an appropriate child passenger restraint system that meets federal safety standards. Bus operators must either verbally inform passengers about seatbelt requirements or post visible signage about compliance and penalties.

The legislation maintains existing exemptions for medical conditions and emergency situations, while preserving courts' authority to exempt individuals based on physical fitness or size. Violations remain an infraction, punishable by a $20 fine for first offenses and $50 for subsequent infractions. Courts may allow first-time offenders to attend traffic school in lieu of paying fines.