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Bill

H 625

An Act relative to corporal punishment

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Mike Kushmerek

H 625 - An Act relative to corporal punishment OverviewBill Number: H 625 Title: An Act relative to corporal punishment Status: Bill reported favorably by committee and referred

Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on House Ways and Means
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Bill Summary · H 625

H 625 - An Act relative to corporal punishment

Overview

Bill Number: H 625
Title: An Act relative to corporal punishment
Status: Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on House Ways and Means
Introduced: February 27, 2025

Purpose and Intent

The primary goal of this bill is to prohibit the use of corporal punishment in schools and other educational settings across the state. The legislation aims to protect children from physical discipline methods that have been shown to have negative impacts on their physical and mental well-being. Proponents argue that alternative, non-physical disciplinary approaches are more effective and humane.

Key Provisions

  • Bans the use of corporal punishment, defined as the intentional infliction of physical pain as a method of behavior modification, in all public and private schools, daycares, and other educational institutions
  • Requires schools to develop and implement alternative discipline policies focused on positive reinforcement, restorative justice, and trauma-informed practices
  • Mandates comprehensive training for all school staff on effective non-physical discipline techniques
  • Establishes a reporting system for incidents of corporal punishment, with penalties for non-compliance

Affected Parties and Impacts

  • Students in public and private schools, daycares, and other educational settings would be protected from corporal punishment and benefit from alternative discipline approaches
  • Teachers, administrators, and other school staff would need to adapt to the new requirements, undergoing training and changing disciplinary practices
  • Parents and guardians would have the assurance that their children will not be subjected to physical punishment in educational environments

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

The bill has been reported favorably by the relevant committee and has been referred to the House Ways and Means Committee for further consideration. If it passes this committee, the bill will then proceed to a full vote in the state House of Representatives. If approved by the House, it will move to the state Senate for consideration before potentially being signed into law by the governor.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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