Booster seat regulations changing Monday

A new Missouri law taking effect Monday requires children ages 4 through 7 to be in booster seats while in a vehicle. "Just a few more years in a booster seat can help prevent serious injury and may even save your child's life," Leanna Depue, director of highway safety for Missouri Department of Transportation, said in a news release. Under the new law, children younger than 4 and who weigh less than 40 pounds are required to be in a child safety seat. Children ages 4 through 7 who weigh at least 40 pounds are required to be in a child safety or booster seat, unless they are 80 pounds, or 4 feet 9 inches tall, the release stated. Violating the law carries a $50 fine plus court costs.