SB 269 – Prohibits the use of restraints on children under the age of 17 during court proceedings except in certain circumstances

• Sponsor: Nasheed
• LR Number: 1434S.01I
• Committee: Judiciary and Civil and Criminal Jurisprudence
• Last Action: 4/14/2015 - Hearing Conducted S Judiciary and Civil and Criminal Jurisprudence Committee
• Effective Date: August 28, 2015

Current Bill Summary

SB 269 - This act prohibits the use of restraints, including handcuffs, chains, irons, and straightjackets, on children under the age of 17 during court proceedings.

Restraints may be used on children in court, however, if the court determines there are no less restrictive alternatives to restraints and they are necessary to prevent harm to the child or others, the child has a history of certain harmful behaviors, or there is a founded belief the child presents a substantial risk of flight.

Under this act, the court must provide the child's attorney with an opportunity to be heard and make findings of fact when ordering the use of restraints.

MEGHAN LUECKE