Senators yesterday passed the seatbelt penalties law imposing fines of up to $200 on people who are found guilty of not wearing a seatbelt while in a car.

The bill will now be sent to the Governor for signing after which it will have immediate effect.

Ticketed persons who plead guilty to violating the seatbelt requirement will be subject to a $50 fine, while those who plead not guilty and are found guilty in court will have to shell out up to $200.

The bill passed with no objections. Opposition Senator Kim Swan called on the Road Safety Council to continue doing a good job in raising public awareness about road safety issues.

"Let's continue to be vigilant in educating the public about the importance of road safety," he said.

Government Senator Raymond Tannock said that "great strides" have been made on safety but he was concerned about young people.

"That's where we need to continue preaching about safety," Sen. Tannock said.

Introducing the bill, Senator Larry Mussenden said that, while Bermudians were conscious of the need to be safe on the roads, the measures will give Police confidence to enforce the law.