This bill establishes a pilot program within the Department of Education aimed at developing evidence-based alternatives to the restraint and seclusion of students. The program, known as the Safe Schools Pilot Project, will provide technical assistance, professional development, and training for school staff, focusing on problem-solving and skill development. The bill specifies that the alternatives must be trauma-informed, proactive, and non-punitive, explicitly excluding any programs that involve restraint or seclusion, crisis prevention training, de-escalation training, or behavior management training. The pilot project will prioritize applications from various school districts, including those with high incidents of restraint and seclusion, and will last between 3 to 12 months starting in January 2026.

Additionally, the bill outlines reporting requirements for participating school districts, mandating them to submit implementation data every three months. The Department of Education will analyze the outcomes and provide biannual reports to various stakeholders, including the governor's office and education committees. The report will cover demographics, historical data on restraint and seclusion, training provided, and outcomes of the pilot project. While the bill does not allocate funding or authorize new positions, it estimates that the implementation costs could range from $100,000 to $500,000 per year.