FL S1008

Manual physical restraint on students with disabilities is prohibited except in emergencies when there is imminent risk of serious injury or death, and may only be used by certified school personnel using district-approved techniques.

School personnel are prohibited from using 13 specific restraint techniques including prone and supine restraint, choking, mechanical restraint, pressure on chest/neck, and any technique involving the face or head.

Seclusion of students is completely prohibited; time-out is allowed only when part of a functional behavioral intervention plan, takes place in a regular classroom setting, and does not exceed 1 minute per year of the student's age.

Schools must provide medical evaluation of any restrained student, notify parents in writing before end of school day, provide completed incident reports within 3 school days, and submit weekly redacted copies to Disability Rights Florida.

School districts must develop policies addressing allowable restraint use, personnel training and certification, data collection and analysis, and plans to reduce restraint use; training must include de-escalation techniques, medical emergency procedures, and cardiopulmonary resuscitation.