The proposed bill aims to enhance the safety and well-being of students in public schools by prohibiting harmful practices such as chemical, mechanical, and physical restraints that interfere with breathing or blood flow. By 2031, the legislation seeks to ban isolation practices, provide technical assistance, and improve accountability among school districts and educational service providers. The bill amends existing laws to clarify that all staff members, except licensed health professionals in inpatient facilities, are subject to these regulations. It also emphasizes that restraint or isolation should only be used when necessary to prevent imminent harm and must be closely monitored.

Key provisions include the requirement for individualized education programs to avoid planned use of restraint or isolation unless specifically requested by a parent or guardian, and the necessity for written consent from them. The bill mandates follow-up procedures after incidents of restraint or isolation, including communication with parents and documentation of the incident. Additionally, it prohibits the design of spaces intended solely for student isolation and requires annual reporting on incidents of restraint and isolation to the superintendent of public instruction. Definitions for various terms related to restraint and isolation are also provided to ensure clarity in implementation.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 28A.600.485, 28A.600.486, 28A.155.210, 28A.320.127, 28A.320.125, 28A.410.270, 28A.155.250, 28A.415.330
Substitute bill: 28A.600.485, 28A.600.486