Number: RL32214
Title: Safety Belts: Federal Policies, Incentives, and Reauthorization Issues
Authors: Paul F. Rothberg, Resources, Science, and Industry Division 
Abstract: This report presents background information and analysis on the policy issues associated with increasing safety belt use rates and the federal role in this area. First, statistics on the use of safety belts are presented. Then, a summary of various state laws and use rates is presented, followed by a discussion on some of the concerns that have been expressed by various parties regarding belt laws. Next, current federal policies and programs affecting safety belt use are detailed, paying particular attention to the activities of NHTSA, the key federal agency responsible for promoting traffic safety and the use of safety belts.
Pages: 22
Date: Updated February 3, 2004