House approves Madsen bill to bolster seatbelt laws for minors

Rep. David Madsen July 9, 2025 | 12:13 PM

HARRISBURG, July 9 – State Rep. Dave Madsen, D-Dauphin, is applauding a major victory for child passenger safety with H.B. 1093’s passage in the state House, a pivotal bill aimed at strengthening seatbelt and child-restraint enforcement for minors across Pennsylvania.

“This vote was about protecting our youngest and most vulnerable passengers on Pennsylvania’s roadways,” Madsen said. “For too long, unclear definitions and inconsistent enforcement have left children at unnecessary risk.”

House Bill 1093 would eliminate confusion in Pennsylvania’s driving statutes by clearly spelling out seat belt requirements for minors. Under the bill, the youngest passengers must ride in properly sized, age-appropriate restraint seats, while every driver and passenger aged eight to 18 is required to buckle up on every trip.

Law enforcement has struggled under the current statute’s awkward phrasing, which has at times prevented officers from citing drivers and underage occupants. This legislation would close that gap by making seat belt use mandatory for all vehicle occupants at all times and placing unambiguous responsibility on drivers to secure every passenger.

“This legislation is more than a technical fix—it’s a life-saving commitment,” Madsen added.

The bill now heads to the state Senate for consideration.

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