Yesterday, in response to a recent government investigation that found widespread allegations that children were being abused through misuses of restraint and seclusion in classrooms, the U.S. House of Representatives approved bipartisan legislation to protect children from inappropriate uses of these practices in schools. The Keeping All Students Safe Act (H.R. 4247) passed by a vote of 262 to 153.
On the House floor, Chairman Miller gave a passionate closing statement and co-sponsor Rep. McMorris Rodgers gave a impassioned speech in favor of this act.
ABC News had a story last night highlighting the abuses from the government investigation and how the Keeping All Students Safe Act would do just that.
On the House floor, Chairman Miller gave a passionate closing statement and co-sponsor Rep. McMorris Rodgers gave a impassioned speech in favor of this act.
ABC News had a story last night highlighting the abuses from the government investigation and how the Keeping All Students Safe Act would do just that.
The New York Times wrote an article this morning, House Votes to Protect Pupils Against Abusive Discipline, that explains how the act will improve the safety of children at school.
They say:
They say:
The legislation stems in part from a government report last year that found evidence that hundreds of children — from preschool age to high school — had been traumatized or physically harmed by being held down or locked alone in rooms, some even tied to chairs. Many had developmental problems or were in special needs programs; many others were in regular classes. Some children have died, apparently because of overly aggressive discipline, according to numerous reports over the last decade.We encourage you to read the GAO’s investigation, learn more about the bill, and see the full list of supporters
The bill would prohibit, except in cases of imminent danger, any restraint that restricts breathing; any mechanical restraint, like straps; and chemical restraint, by drugs other than those prescribed by a child’s doctor. It allows for “time outs” but not for a child to be locked in a room, away from supervision. It requires states to keep careful records of incidents of restraint and seclusion, and for schools to report incidents promptly to parents.
