HI HB1796

Prohibits the use of seclusion, chemical restraint, and mechanical restraint in public schools regardless of consent from students, parents, or guardians.

Limits physical restraint to situations where a student's behavior poses imminent danger of property damage or physical injury, only when less intrusive interventions have failed or been deemed inappropriate, and prohibits restraints that restrict breathing.

Requires the Board of Education to establish restraint policies and the Department of Education to establish procedures including immediate verbal or electronic notification to parents on the same day as an incident and written notification within 24 hours.

Mandates annual training for staff using restraint covering evidence-based prevention techniques, de-escalation, positive behavioral supports, and conflict management, with annual reviews of restraint data by school complex area superintendents.

Appropriates $250,000 for fiscal year 2014-2015 to support training and data accountability implementation, with the Act taking effect August 1, 2016, except the appropriation takes effect July 1, 2014.