Bill > SB01542

This bill modifies Connecticut law regarding the use of mechanical restraints and handcuffs on children in legal proceedings, with significant restrictions on restraining young children. Specifically, the bill establishes a presumption that mechanical restraints should be removed from detained children before court appearances, and mandates that any in-court use of restraints must be court-ordered and follow Judicial Branch written policies. The bill requires the Judicial Branch to track and publicly report statistics on restraint usage, with identifying information redacted. Most notably, beginning October 1, 2025, children under fourteen years old cannot be handcuffed during initial police contact, with exceptions only for clear public safety risks or situations where the child is using or threatening physical force against a police officer. The bill represents a progressive approach to juvenile justice, aiming to reduce the traumatic impact of physical restraints on young children and limit their use to only the most critical circumstances, reflecting a growing understanding of child development and trauma-informed legal practices.

Justice

Judiciary Committee (J)

https://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=SB01542&which_year=2025