SB 718 - This act provides that a child shall not be restrained during a juvenile court proceeding and, if restrained, the restraints shall be removed prior to the child's appearance before the court, unless the court finds the restraints are necessary, as described in the act.

If the juvenile officer believes there is an immediate safety or flight risk and needs to restrain the child, the juvenile officer shall advise the child's attorney and make a request in writing prior to the hearing in which the officer wishes the child to be restrained. If the request for restraints is made by the juvenile officer, the court shall order a hearing and allow the child's attorney an opportunity to be heard. If restraints are ordered, the court shall provide facts in support of the order.

If restraints are used, the restraints shall allow the child limited movement to read and handle documents and writings necessary to the proceeding. Under no circumstances shall the child be affixed by use of a restraint to a stationary object.

This act is identical to HB 782 (2025).

SARAH HASKINS

Statutes affected:
Introduced (2778S.01): 211.436

Senate Committee Minutes:
SENATE COMMITTEE MINUTES Bill No.: SB 718
Sponsor: Roberts
Hearing Date: 4/2/2025


COMMITTEE: Judiciary and Civil and Criminal Jurisprudence

CHAIRMAN: Schroer

DATE REFERRED: 3/24/2025 DATE HEARING REQUESTED: 3/28/2025



STAFF:
Eric Michael
Katie O'Brien


WITNESSES GIVING INFORMATION:



WITNESSES FOR:
Daniel Feldman - Self


WITNESSES AGAINST: