ID H0281

Prohibits corporal punishment and eliminates use of restraint and seclusion as disciplinary methods; allows physical or mechanical restraint or seclusion only when a student's conduct poses imminent danger of serious bodily harm to themselves, employees, or others.

Defines key terms: corporal punishment, physical escort, physical restraint, mechanical restraint, chemical restraint, and seclusion; excludes lawful medical devices and prescribed medications from restraint definitions.

Requires all public and charter school staff to receive annual professional development training in positive behavior supports, de-escalation techniques, and classroom behavior management; mandates additional crisis management training for staff serving students with aggressive or dangerous behaviors.

Mandates school district boards of trustees and public charter school directors to adopt policies addressing restraint and seclusion that include definitions, guidelines for use and prohibitions, parent and agency reporting requirements, and periodic review of practices.

State Department of Education must prepare resources, guidance, and training modules to support schools in compliance with these provisions.

Effective date: July 1, 2023 (declared emergency).