Texas Senate Bill SB751

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of Senate Committee: 4/15/09
• Voted on by Senate: 4/30/09
• Out of House Committee: 5/20/09

Caption

Relating to the use of restraints in state schools.

Impact

The bill proposes significant changes to how state schools can manage behavior, particularly concerning the treatment of residents. By limiting restraints to only the most necessary situations and banning practices such as straitjacketing, the bill shifts the focus from punitive measures toward a more compassionate and safety-oriented approach. This change is likely to alter policy frameworks within state schools, enforcing stricter oversight and reporting requirements regarding incidents of restraint, which advocates believe will lead to better protection of vulnerable populations within these educational settings.

Summary

SB751 aims to regulate the use of mechanical and physical restraints in state schools, focusing on the protection of residents while ensuring their humane treatment. The bill mandates that restraints should only be applied in circumstances where they are necessary to prevent imminent physical injury and must be the least restrictive method effective for that purpose. Additionally, it establishes that any use of restraint must cease immediately once the threat of injury has ended, thereby emphasizing the need for a swift and just response to such situations.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB751 include concerns from some educators about the implications this bill may have on maintaining classroom control and student safety. Critics fear that the limitations imposed on restraint usage could hinder their ability to effectively manage students with challenging behaviors, thus potentially compromising the safety of both staff and students. Conversely, proponents assert that the bill is a necessary step to prevent inhumane treatment and abuse of residents, fostering a more supportive environment conducive to learning and personal development.