Georgia Senate Revives Pickup Truck Seat Belt Bill

The Georgia Senate this week revived and approved a proposal that would force pickup truck drivers to wear their seat belts.

The bill passed with a vote of 45-2. Bill sponsor Sen. Don Thomas, a physician and Republican from Dalton, says the measure will save lives and money in the state.

The state is the last in the country that exempts adults from buckling up in pickups. Though there is no opposition to the measure from lobbyists, rural lawmakers have blocked the bill as unnecessary regulation.Thomas says he is encouraged that the proposal, which has not had much luck in the House in years past, will fare better under that chamber's new leadership. Georgia would become eligible for federal incentive grants if the legislation passes.