I have a 97 suburban 4x4 5.7L automatic with about 145K miles on it. When I first start it up the air bag light on the IP blinks for a short while and then stays on steady. If I turn the vehicle off and then restart it, the light goes through its blinking cycle and then stays off. The steady state problem seems to only happen if the vehicle has been shut off for a while.

Any ideas?

You'll need to get a scanner that's capable of getting the SIR codes. Without them it's pretty hopeless to troubleshoot. But, try this: Replace the 10 amp "airbag" fuse at the left side of the instrument panel. Make sure the key is off. While it's out check voltage with the key on. Less than 8.2v or more that 17.1v with engine running will keep the light on. Also check the connector to the SIR diagnostic module located under the driver seat. Make sure it's properly seated. It will have anywhere from 10 to12 wires all in a straight line in the connector. If you're going to disconnect it, remove the battery ground and wait for 1 hour prior to doing that........Steve