The bill amends Chapter 14-1 of the General Laws by introducing a new section titled "Restraint of juveniles." It prohibits the use of handcuffs, shackles, chains, or other restraints on juveniles during transport to or from court proceedings and while appearing in court, except under specific circumstances. These circumstances include a determination that the juvenile presents an immediate and credible risk of escape that cannot be adequately mitigated through less restrictive means, or that the juvenile poses a threat to their own safety or the safety of others.

If restraints are deemed necessary, the sheriff is required to submit a report to the director of the department of public safety within five days, articulating the grounds for the use of restraints. Additionally, the department must submit an annual report to the General Assembly in January, disclosing the number of juveniles subjected to restraints and the reasons for their use, without including any individually identifying information.

Restraints cannot be used during court proceedings unless the presiding court makes a specific finding on the record that such restraints are necessary due to a credible risk of escape, a threat to safety, or the need to maintain order and security in the courtroom. The legislation emphasizes that if restraints are necessary, the least restrictive form of restraint must be used, consistent with the legitimate security needs of each juvenile. This act is set to take effect upon passage.