A new study conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reveals that lap belts on school buses may increase the risk of a child suffering a neck injury in the event of an accident. The NHTSA plans to present the report, which is based on several years of research, to Congress. Currently, Florida, New York and New Jersey require lap belts on all newly purchased school buses while the Federal government requires the harnesses on buses weighing less than 10,000 pounds. The NHTSA says the lap belts should be replaced with lap/shoulder belts, which are required in cars.

According to government sources, though, the cost of installing new buses with lap/shoulder belts, estimated at $120 million a year, may deter Congress from approving new regulations. Critics argue that price should not be an issue if the belts may save a child's life. Hundreds of children are seriously injured each year in school bus accidents.