Ask A Trooper: What's The Law On Child Car and Booster Seats?

In this regular series on Patch, Public Information Officer Lt. J. Paul Vance of the Connecticut State Police provides answers to your law enforcement questions.

Reader Question:  What's the law regarding car seats and booster seats and when can children ride in front seats? I have a 7- and 9-year-old, and they ask when they can be out of booster seats and sit in front.  I have heard all sorts of answers, but would like it clarified once and for all.

Response from Lt. J. Paul Vance: Any person who transports a child 6 years of age and under or weighing less than 60 pounds in a motor vehicle on the highways of this state shall provide and require the child to use a child restraint system approved pursuant to regulations adopted by the DMV. 

Any person who transports a child 7 years of age or older and weighing 60 or more pounds in a motor vehicle on the highways of this state shall provide and require the child to use a seat safety belt. 

Vehicle manufacturers suggest that children 12 and under sit in the back seat of a motor vehicle due to the impact of an airbag on a child. 

No state statute addresses children sitting in the front seat.