Mass. Ranks Last Again in US For Use of Seat Belts

By Michael Levenson, Globe Staff | April 7, 2009

Massachusetts ranked last among the states in its rate of seat belt use last year, extending a dismal trend that has prompted renewed calls for a tougher seat belt law.

The rate, 66.8 percent, was down 1.9 percent from 2007 and well below the national average of 83 percent, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Massachusetts' rate, which has been last or near last for years, has improved from a rate of 56 percent in 2001.

Massachusetts is one of 22 states that do not allow police officers to stop motorists for not a wearing seat belt. State law allows police to ticket drivers for the offense, but only if the drivers are stopped for another reason first.

Efforts to pass a "primary enforcement" law have repeatedly failed in the Legislature, defeated by critics who argue the law would give police too much power to stop drivers. Some have also raised concerns that minorities would be unfairly targeted.

A "primary enforcement" bill has been filed in the Legislature again this year, but has not gained traction, legislators said. Proponents say the bill will not only save lives, but bring Massachusetts $13.6 million in federal transportation funds if it passes before June 30.

"It's really the only thing that's proven to bring up the usage rate," said Arthur Kinsman of the American Automobile Association of Southern New England. But opponents, like Senator Robert L. Hedlund, say the bill is "an intrusive, big government move."

Hedlund, a Weymouth Republican, said: "Common sense dictates you should wear your seat belt, whether or not there's primary enforcement."