A 9614 New York Assembly · 2025 Regular Session

Prohibits the use of timeout boxes, closets or other secluded physical enclosures in schools in the state

This bill prohibits schools in the state from using timeout boxes, closets, or any other secluded physical enclosures to isolate children. It applies to all schools covered under the law, including public schools, charter schools, special education programs, and certain private schools. The law specifically bans physical isolation methods like padded rooms or structures designed to confine students alone. This is a direct policy change that eliminates a specific restraint practice in educational settings.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Jan 2026
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Jan 21, 2026 Last action Mar 31, 2026
Maddy AI version diff · 1 comparison

What changed between versions

A9614 A9614A · 3 edits
MINOR
The bill was amended to create a narrow exception to its original ban on timeout boxes, allowing their use only when authorized by state regulations for physical restraint. Additionally, the definition of a 'timeout box' was expanded to include metal enclosures and both temporary and permanent structures.
Scope change
The bill's scope was narrowed by adding a specific exemption for timeout boxes used in compliance with commissioner regulations, whereas the original version prohibited them entirely.
REQUIREMENT

Added an exception allowing the use of timeout boxes if they are authorized for physical restraint under the commissioner's regulations.

DEFINITION

Expanded the definition of 'timeout box' to include metal enclosures and to cover both temporary and permanent structures.

TECHNICAL

Updated the bill title and committee history to reflect that the bill was amended and discharged from committee.

Floor votes

How they voted

No floor votes recorded yet.
Full legislative history

Actions timeline

Total actions
4
Key actions
2
Committee
1
Amendments
2
Feb 10, 2026
Lower · Passed
PRINT NUMBER 9614A
lower
Feb 10, 2026
Lower · Passed
AMEND AND RECOMMIT TO EDUCATION
lower
Jan 21, 2026
Committee
REFERRED TO EDUCATION
lower
1 primary · 1 co-sponsor

Sponsors