Most states have a proper use clause, and the Vivo and Turbobooster both have an age 3 minimum, so yes, those specific recommendations as I said would be illegal.
Did you respond without reading my post?
I specifically said that YES, MI is a proper use state.
And I specifically said that CERTAIN boosters, such as the dorel ones, do in fact allow use by a child of the age and weight of the the child in question.
Listen, I hate the idea too. I think it's a clear example of Darwinism in action. I was just saying that it is not technically illegal for a 42 lb 2.8 year old to ride in *certain* boosters in the state of Michigan. It's not. You can hate that it's not, but that doesn't change the facts. And every time we make incorrect, false statements to parents, it diminishes our credability as a profession.
So..tell them the facts. Give them information. Explain vehemently that a BPB is not in any way shape or form, a "recommended" restraint system for a 2 year old. Hell, tell 'em thateven though it's legal, you so strongly disapprove of their decision, ,you can not in good conscience help them put a child in such danger. But once you LIE to them, and tell them it is "illegal", then you've crossed a line yourself.
I don't see how this is any differnt than the family who is adamant about turning the 21 lb 12 month old FFing. You educate. You give the facts. You STRONGLY urge them to make the right decision...but in the end, if they make the poor decision, you put the seat in FFing. If it is not *illegal*, it's the parents choice. No matter how
it is.
KQ - again, I don't get what you are saying about "liability". IF the family chooses a LEGAL, appropriately used - according to manufacturers directions - seat for their child, regardless of how not optimal it might be, I can't see where liability would come into play. You'd be following state law, and manufacturers instructions, and documenting that you advised the family that the choice was absolutely not recommended. Again, I cite the case of the FFing 12 month old. I dont see how this is any different.
I will agree that some boosters would not be legal, such as the turbo or vivo. Sadly, the ones most likely to fit well, and reduce the huge risk, are ones that would be illegal.