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SB 5966

Concerning restraint or isolation of students in public schools and educational programs.

2023-2024 Regular Session Introduced by Bob Hasegawa and 7 co-sponsors

Summary of SB 5966: Concerning Restraint or Isolation of Students Bill OverviewThis bill, SB 5966, aims to establish new policies and requirements around the use of restraint and i

Public hearing in the Senate Committee on Early Learning & K-12 Education at 1:30 PM.
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Bill Summary · SB 5966

Summary of SB 5966: Concerning Restraint or Isolation of Students

Bill Overview

This bill, SB 5966, aims to establish new policies and requirements around the use of restraint and isolation techniques on students in public schools and educational programs within the state.

Key Provisions

  • Prohibits the use of restraint or isolation on students except in limited emergency situations when necessary to prevent imminent serious harm.
  • Requires schools to attempt de-escalation techniques and less restrictive alternatives before using restraint or isolation.
  • Mandates comprehensive staff training on conflict de-escalation, trauma-informed care, and alternatives to restraint/isolation.
  • Establishes reporting and oversight requirements, including parental notification, data collection, and review by the state education department.
  • Directs the development of statewide policies and procedures to minimize the use of restraint and isolation.

Impact

This bill would impact all public schools, school districts, and state-funded early learning and educational programs in the state. The new restrictions and requirements are intended to:

  • Enhance student safety and wellbeing by limiting the use of potentially harmful restraint and isolation practices.
  • Promote the use of evidence-based, trauma-informed, and de-escalation strategies to address student behavioral issues.
  • Increase transparency, accountability, and oversight around the use of restrictive interventions.
  • Mandate comprehensive staff training to better equip educators to respond effectively to student behavior without resorting to restraint or isolation.

Timeline

SB 5966 was introduced on January 4, 2024 and is currently scheduled for a public hearing in the Senate Committee on Early Learning & K-12 Education. If passed by the legislature and signed into law, the new policies and requirements would likely take effect at the start of the following school year to allow time for implementation.

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

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