Bill > HB326

This bill requires drivers and passengers of antique passenger vehicles from model year 1968 or older to wear seat or safety belts when driving more than 20 miles on state or local highways, with specific exceptions. The legislation mandates that seat or safety belts must meet United States Department of Transportation standards (49 C.F.R. sections 571.207-210) and be properly adjusted and fastened. Exemptions are provided for vehicles participating in parades or traveling off-road, and the bill does not supersede existing seat belt laws. Violations will be considered a civil offense, and the state's Department of Transportation is tasked with developing rules for seat belt installation and retrofitting in these vintage vehicles. The law is set to take effect on January 1, 2026, giving vehicle owners ample time to comply with the new requirements. The bill aims to improve safety for drivers and passengers of older vehicles while recognizing the unique status of antique automobiles and providing reasonable accommodations for their special uses.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://gc.nh.gov/bill_status/legacy/bs2016/bill_docket.aspx?lsr=0499&sy=2025&sortoption=&txtsessionyear=2025&txtbillnumber=HB326