02/28/13 Legislation authored by State Sen. Randy Head (R-Logansport) to protect children and staff members in schools passed the Senate today by a vote of 49-1.
As amended, Senate Bill 345 would establish a Commission on Seclusion and Restraint in Schools to develop a model plan for Indiana schools on the proper methods, standards and training for student seclusion and restraint. Each school corporation would also have to develop its own plan and have it approved by the commission.
“Last week, the Senate Education Committee heard testimony that described the very real consequences that restraint and seclusion can have,” Head said. “There have been reports of students dying due to the well-meaning, but misguided actions of untrained individuals in our schools. Most schools already do an excellent job in properly disciplining students, but we can’t allow a tragedy like that to happen, which is why Indiana schools need clear guidelines and staff training.”
SB 345 now moves to the House of Representatives for further consideration. Reps. Ed Clere (R-New Albany), Bob Heaton (R-Terre Haute), Vanessa Summers (D-Indianapolis) and Kreg Battles (D-Vincennes) are its sponsors.
