The bill seeks to improve student safety in public schools by prohibiting harmful practices such as chemical, mechanical, and physical restraints that impede breathing or blood flow. It introduces a trauma-informed professional development program aimed at promoting evidence-informed alternatives to restraint and isolation, with a target to eliminate isolation practices by 2031. The legislation clarifies that all staff members of school districts and educational service providers are subject to these regulations, with exceptions for licensed health professionals in inpatient facilities. It also establishes procedural and reporting requirements for incidents involving restraint or isolation to ensure accountability and transparency.

Key provisions include the prohibition of specific types of restraints, the requirement for follow-up procedures after incidents, and the mandate for school districts to adopt policies prioritizing the least restrictive measures for safety. The bill prohibits the creation of new isolation rooms while allowing for voluntary quiet spaces and temporary safe areas under certain conditions. It expands the definition of "provider of public educational services" to include various educational entities and clarifies terms related to restraint and staff members. Additionally, it requires that parents and guardians of children with individualized education programs receive a copy of the policy on isolation and restraint when the program is created, enhancing communication between educational providers and families regarding the management of students with special needs.

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
Engrossed substitute: 28A.600.485, 28A.600.486
Bill as passed Legislature: 28A.600.485, 28A.600.486
Session law: 28A.600.485, 28A.600.486