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NHTSA Backs Delay of Seat Belt Anchorage Rules for Heavy Vehicles

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has endorsed a proposal to postpone compliance deadlines for new seat belt assembly anchorage regulations. A federal rulemaking notice was published in the Federal Register.

Vehicles exceeding 10,000 pounds would gain a three-year extension, with the compliance date moving to September 1, 2030 from the original September 1, 2027 target. Lighter vehicles remain bound by the 2027 deadline, while multi-stage manufacturers and vehicle alterers handling vehicles under 10,000 pounds face a September 1, 2028 date.

The Engine Manufacturers Association petitioned for the delay in November 2024, challenging a final rule published the previous September that amended testing procedures for seat belt anchorage strength. The rule clarified positioning requirements for testing devices used to ensure anchorages remain secure during crashes.

The NHTSA is accepting public comments on the proposal through July 27.