A new California bill introduced by Assemblywoman Lori Wilson is drawing both support and skepticism. If passed, the legislation would require children and teens under 16 years old to sit in the back seat of a vehicle if they don’t meet a minimum height or size requirement, in an effort to reduce injury risk during car accidents.
Under the proposal, children under 10 would continue to be required to use booster seats. Those ages 10 to 13—and older teens under 16 who are below a certain size threshold—would be legally restricted to the back seat.
While traffic safety advocates applaud the measure as a logical step toward reducing crash-related injuries, critics are questioning its practicality. During a panel discussion on The Roggin Report, contributors Brian Harnick and Stephanie Green shared differing views on the proposal’s merits.
“I’m not a big fan of regulations,” Harnick said, “but safety comes first.” He argued that the bill should focus more on a person’s frame than their age, pointing out that small-framed individuals or those with medical conditions may be just as vulnerable, regardless of age.
Stephanie Green, known for her skepticism of increased regulation, questioned how the law would be enforced. “To make a law, it has to be enforceable,” she said. “This one seems rather unenforceable to me.”
Both panelists agreed on one point: Education and safe driving practices are essential. “Let’s not drive distracted,” Green added. “Let’s look out for ourselves in our cars.”
Whether this proposed law will gain traction remains to be seen, but it’s already igniting conversations about how far legislation should go in the name of safety—and how it can be practically implemented.
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By: NBC Palm Springs
April 8, 2025
