FRANKFORT, Ky. — Kentucky Gov. Steve Beshear has signed legislation aimed at improving safety for child passengers in Kentucky.  Senate Bill 120 requires that children younger than 7 and between 40 and 50 inches tall be secured in a booster seat.

“Booster seats are proven to be effective at saving young lives. This bill provides a reasonable approach to help achieve our ultimate goal of saving lives and reducing injuries. I commend the Kentucky Senate and House for their effort on this important issue,” said Gov. Beshear.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, a properly installed, belt-positioning booster seat lowers the risk of injury to children by nearly 60 percent, compared with seat belts alone.

The bill requires law enforcement officers to issue “courtesy warnings” for violations until 2009, after which there will be a $30 fine with no court costs. In addition, violators will have the option to purchase a booster seat instead of paying the fine.

“This legislation will help ensure Kentucky children are better protected on our roadways,” said Transportation Secretary Joe Prather.

Prather encouraged those who want guidance on proper booster seat installation to contact the cabinet’s highway safety office at 1-888-374-8768. Information about child seats and other safety issues can also be found online at www.highwaysafety.ky.gov.