Bill to Tighten Colorado Seat Belt Law Advancing at Capitol

A proposal to tighten Colorado’s seat belt law is advancing at the Capitol.

The Senate Transportation Committee backed the measure (Senate Bill 296) in a 4-3 party-line vote, with all Democrats backing it and all Republicans opposed. It now goes to the full Senate.

The bill would make failing to wear a seat belt a primary offense, allowing authorities to pull over violators for that reason alone. Currently seat belts are required, but violators can be ticketed only if they’re pulled over for another traffic offense and then found not to be wearing one.

Colorado could get up to $14 million in federal aid if the bill passes. Previous efforts have failed because of concerns about racial profiling and civil liberties.