When did regulations for rear seat belts begin?

The regulations for rear seat belts began on June 1, 1969. This date marks a significant step in enhancing vehicle safety standards, reflecting an increasing awareness of the importance of seat belts in protecting occupants in the event of a collision. Mandating rear seat belts aimed to provide similar levels of safety in the back seat as was already required in the front, thus contributing to overall passenger safety in vehicles. Prior to this regulation, while front seat belts were already a requirement, the focus on rear passengers' safety was limited. Implementing these regulations laid the foundation for subsequent developments in automobile safety and the ongoing emphasis on compliance with safety standards in Maryland and across the United States.