Times-Union Investigation Spurs NYS Bill Limiting Physical Restraints by Schools

A Times Union investigation showing that staff at New York schools serving children with disabilities “intentionally misused physical restraints on students” has resulted in the drafting and submission of a bill, “Keeping All New York Students Safe Act,” by New York State Assemblywoman Michaelle C. Solages, a spokesman in her office says.

The bill would implement a state-wide plan to prevent and reduce the use of seclusion and physical restraint in schools; prohibit the use of seclusion, mechanical restraint, chemical restraint, and dangerous restraints that restrict breathing on students; authorize annual appropriations to provide grants to school districts; and provide for more rapid notice to parents if restraints or seclusion is used on a student. (See the bill here.)

Meanwhile, a federal bill reintroduced in 2021 by Sens. Chris Murphy, D-Conn., and Patty Murray, D-Wash., the Keeping All Students Safe Act, is currently languishing in Congress. Versions of the bill, reports NBCnews.com, have been introduced since 2009.