Substitute Senate Bill No. 1542, also known as Public Act No. 25-163, establishes new regulations regarding the use of mechanical restraints, specifically handcuffs, on young children in juvenile proceedings. The bill introduces a presumption that all mechanical restraints must be removed from preadjudicated detained children during their court appearances, unless ordered by the court or in accordance with Judicial Branch policy. Additionally, the Judicial Branch is required to maintain and publicly provide statistics on the use of mechanical restraints, ensuring that any identifying information about juveniles is redacted.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that no preadjudicated child under the age of fourteen may be restrained with handcuffs from the moment of initial contact with a police officer, except in specific circumstances outlined in the bill. These exceptions include situations where the child poses a threat to public safety or is using or threatening to use physical force against the police officer. The changes aim to protect the rights and dignity of young children within the juvenile justice system while ensuring safety for all involved.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill:
JUD Joint Favorable Substitute:
File No. 778:
Public Act No. 25-163: