New Hampshire bill proposes seat belt requirements for antique cars after tragic accident

The New Hampshire House Transportation Committee convened on January 21, 2025, to discuss House Bill 326, which proposes to prohibit the operation of antique passenger vehicles from 1968 or older on state or local highways for more than 20 miles unless fitted with seat belts. This bill, introduced by Representative Timothy Horrigan, stems from a personal tragedy involving the death of his brother-in-law in an accident while driving an antique car without modern safety features.

During the public hearing, Horrigan shared a heartfelt testimony about his brother-in-law, John Warner IV, who was killed in a collision that could have been mitigated by seat belts. He emphasized the need for safety regulations for antique vehicles, arguing that if seat belts are required for younger passengers, similar standards should apply to older cars.

However, the bill faced significant opposition from members of the antique car community. Richard Smith, president of the White Mountain chapter of the Model A Ford Club, expressed concerns about the practicality and enforceability of the proposed regulations. He highlighted that many antique car owners already take personal initiative to enhance safety features without the need for government mandates. Smith argued that the bill could impose undue financial burdens on hobbyists and complicate the restoration process of vintage vehicles.

Other opponents, including Lawrence Arts and Chris Landry, echoed these sentiments, warning that retrofitting antique cars with seat belts could compromise their structural integrity and diminish their value as collector's items. They raised questions about the enforcement of such a law, suggesting it could lead to unnecessary scrutiny of antique vehicles by law enforcement.

The committee members engaged in discussions about the implications of the bill, including potential exceptions for out-of-state vehicles and the need for further clarification on enforcement mechanisms. While some committee members expressed sympathy for the bill's intent, they acknowledged the complexities involved in regulating antique vehicles.

As the meeting concluded, the committee was left to consider the balance between enhancing safety and preserving the integrity of the antique car community. The future of House Bill 326 remains uncertain as further discussions and potential amendments are anticipated in the coming weeks.