Abstract: An apparatus and method for encouraging seat belt use in a vehicle. The apparatus includes a control unit coupled to at least one seat unit and an entertainment unit. If sensors within one of the seat units detect that a seat is occupied and the user in the seat is not wearing a seat belt, the control unit may reduce the functionality of the entertainment unit. The entertainment unit may contain a CD player, radio, or any electronic device unnecessary for operation of the vehicle. The vehicle may not start if a seat unit is occupied and the user in the seat is not wearing a seat belt. In some embodiments of the invention, a temperature control unit may control the temperature within the vehicle if a user is not wearing a seat belt. A child seat unit is described to function with the seat belt encouragement system.