(WWJ) Starting today, April 2, 2025, the state of Michigan's new child car seat laws are in effect.
Some changes that parents and caregivers need to know about were ordered under Public Act 21 of 2024, which was signed by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer last spring.
For children under age 2: Infants must now remain in a rear-facing child car seat until they're at least 2 years old and have reached the height and weight limits set by the seat's manufacturer. (Previously, Michigan law stated children under age 1 should remain rear-facing.
For children ages 2 to 5: A child must be harnessed in a rear or forward- facing seat until they are at least 5 years old. (Previously, the law required children under the age of 4 to use a child car seat).
For older kids: There are no changes to booster seat requirements. Children under the age of 8 or 4'9'' tall are still required to use a booster seat. After that, it remains recommended that all children ages 12 and under sit in the backseat.
According to state officials, car crashes are the NUMBER one cause of death for young children, but making sure they're properly restrained reduces the risk of death by 50%.
Expert say using the car seat or booster seat that's right for your child’s age and size can help prevent injuries and fatalities caused by crashes. Get some quick tips at this link, or more complete child car seat safety information from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration HERE.
Children's Hospital Injury Coordinator Rene Zarr said choosing the best car seat comes down to reading the label.
"With all the different brands and manufacturers, styles and types and designs — the most important thing is that a caregiver selects a car seat that is one, easy for them to use or to carry of maneuver," Zarr said. "We don't want them to select one that is too heavy or too cumbersome for them to put in their car. Like, if they have a small, compact car, they don't want to get one of those big, bulky seats."
If you are still a bit unclear about the rules, or just want to make sure you're doing it right, you can get your child’s car seat professionally checked. Get your car seat inspected at a station near you.