Assembly Bill 3311
New York state Assembly Bill 3311 would prevent and reduce the use of seclusion and physical restraint in schools; prohibit the use of seclusion, mechanical restraint, chemical restraint, and dangerous restraints that restrict breathing on students; authorizes annual appropriations to provide grants to school districts; and provides quicker notice to parents if restraints or seclusion is used on a student. Physical restraint is defined as a personal restriction that immobilizes or reduces the ability of an individual to move the individual’s arms, legs, torso, or head freely. Chemical restraint means a drug or medication used on a student to control behavior or restrict freedom of movement that is not prescribed by a licensed physician, or other qualified health professional. Seclusion means the involuntary confinement of a student alone in a room or area from which the student is physically prevented from leaving. Increasing evidence shows that restraint and seclusion are ineffective and cause significant emotional and physical harm. Send an email to your state legislators now to let them know where you stand on this issue! Personalizing the message increases its impact.
