Colorado’s Updated Child Passenger Safety Law: What Parents Need to Know
Ensuring the safety of young passengers is a top priority for Colorado lawmakers. As of January 1, 2025, new updates to the state’s Child Passenger Safety Law will take effect, requiring parents and caregivers to follow stricter guidelines for car seat and booster seat use. These changes, signed into law by Governor Jared Polis in June 2024 (HB24-1055), align with the latest safety research to provide better protection for children in vehicles.
What’s Changing?
Under the new law, children must remain in rear-facing car seats until at least two years old and under 40 pounds, a change from the previous one-year requirement. Forward-facing car seats are now required for children between 2-4 years old and at least 20 pounds, and booster seats are mandatory for children between 4-9 years old and at least 40 pounds. Additionally, children are now required to use a seat belt until 18 years old, an increase from the previous age of 15.
What Happens If You Don’t Comply?
Parents and caregivers are legally responsible for ensuring that children are properly restrained in the appropriate car seat, booster seat, or seat belt. Law enforcement officers can pull over drivers if a child is not properly secured, and violations may result in fines and additional penalties. If a child is injured due to improper restraint, caregivers may face even more severe consequences.
How to Ensure Compliance
To keep children safe and avoid citations:
- Follow Manufacturer Guidelines: Install and fit car seats according to the manufacturer’s instructions and the vehicle owner’s manual.
- Use the Correct Seat: Transition children based on weight and age, ensuring they remain in the proper restraint system for as long as necessary.
- Keep Children in the Back Seat: If a back seat is available, children must be seated there.
For more information, including fact sheets on the law updates in 15 different languages, visit the Multilingual Guides and Resources page or email carseatscolorado@gmail.com. By staying informed and following these updated safety requirements, caregivers can help protect Colorado’s youngest passengers and prevent unnecessary injuries on the road.
Additional Information: