H 409 Vermont House · 2023-2024 Regular Session

An act relating to keeping Vermont students safe by restricting the use of restraints and seclusion in schools

This bill prohibits Vermont schools and educational programs that receive state funding from using unlawful physical restraints, seclusion, mechanical restraints, or chemical restraints on students. It defines specific types of restraints and seclusion that are banned, while allowing certain voluntary physical contacts like escorts and prompts that do not restrict movement. Covered entities must report and document any incidents involving restraint or seclusion, notify parents within 24 hours, and hold meetings within five school days to discuss prevention strategies and potential behavioral support plans. The Agency of Education is tasked with creating a performance review system to monitor compliance and provide technical assistance to schools for implementing evidence-based programs that reduce the need for restraints.
Bill status introduced 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Feb 2023
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Feb 28, 2023 Last action Feb 28, 2023
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Feb 28, 2023
Introduced
Read first time and referred to the Committee on Education
lower
2 primary · 31 co-sponsors

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