I was surprised to read that legislation was signed into law this week in Illinois requiring kids under age 2 to be in rear-facing cars seats. I was under the impression that the rear-facing car seat requirement was already law.

According to a report from the Associated Press, the former law only required kids under age 8 to be in a child-restraint seat.

Clearly, the mandate is sensible. Studies show kids fare better in crashes in rear-facing seats.

There is an exemption for kids who are 40 inches or more in length, or over 40 pounds.

If you are unsure whether your car-seat is properly installed - and believe me the installation instructions for these things can be like trying to build the space shuttle - the Rock Island Fire Department often holds child-seat safety checks on Saturdays. Contact the fire department to find out when the next check is scheduled.

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