Maine Bill Seeks to Prohibit Seclusion, Restraints in Schools
AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) A bill in the Maine legislature would prohibit the use of seclusion and limit the use of restraints in schools and other educational organizations that receive public funding in Maine, which data shows leads the country in their use.
Some parents spoke out against the proposed ban on Monday saying that when used appropriately, restraints and seclusion allow their children with autism or other disabilities to stay in their classrooms, the Portland Press Herald reported.
Maine restrains more students per capita than any other state, according to an analysis of school data that was done by Disability Rights Maine. The state secludes students at the second highest rate, the group said, adding that about 90% of students who are secluded or restrained have a disability.