MN HF5197

Amends Minnesota Statutes section 125A.0942 to allow physical holding or seclusion in schools only during emergencies when it is the least intrusive intervention that effectively responds to the situation.

Requires staff to directly observe children during physical holding or seclusion and document incidents including incident description, why less restrictive measures failed, duration, behavioral and physical status, and post-use debriefing.

Establishes specific physical requirements for seclusion rooms including minimum dimensions of six feet by five feet, proper lighting and ventilation, observation windows, tamperproof fixtures, and doors with immediate release mechanisms.

Prohibits seclusion for children from birth through prekindergarten grade 3 by September 1, 2024, and bans other dangerous practices including prone restraint, dangerous holds that impair breathing or communication, and sense restriction as punishment.

Requires districts to report quarterly to the department by January 15, April 15, July 15, and October 15 about individual students who have been secluded and submit annual summary data on restrictive procedures by July 15.