Bill > LD1248

This bill modifies existing Maine state law regarding physical interactions with students in schools by making three key changes. First, it removes the word "voluntary" from the definition of "physical escort," which means touching or guiding a student by hand, wrist, arm, shoulder, or back to move them to a safe location. Second, the bill introduces a new definition of "serious physical injury" as any physical impairment requiring medical evaluation or treatment by a medical professional, including a school nurse, with this definition set to be automatically repealed on August 1, 2029. Third, the bill requires the Department of Education to submit a report to the legislative education committee by January 1, 2029, detailing data on the use of physical restraint and seclusion in schools before and after October 15, 2025, and providing a summary of changes in physical restraint and seclusion practices between 2021 and 2028. The legislative committee is also authorized to introduce a related bill in the 134th Legislature in 2029. These provisions aim to provide more clarity and oversight regarding physical interactions with students in educational settings.

Education

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=1248&snum=132