AAP News Vol. 13 No. 2 February 1997, p. 4
© 1997 American Academy of Pediatrics
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Air bag cut-off switches permitted for some

Marjorie Tharp

The federal government extended an existing rule to let manufacturers install air bag cut-off switches in cars that don't have back seats or room for child safety seats. It is effective immediately.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) considered permitting cut-off switches in other vehicles as well, but rejected that opinion when the Academy and other groups expressed concern that the switch could be misused and could dilute the message "back seat is best" for children.

NHTSA also issued proposed air bag rules on Jan. 6 allowing car owners to have the bags de-activated and permitting auto makers to slow down the bags' deployment. After the 30-day comment period, the rules could become official as early as this spring, according to President Clinton.