Pennsylvania § 6382 - Seclusion, exclusion and alternative methods of discipline.

§ 6382. Seclusion, exclusion and alternative methods of discipline.

(a) Seclusion.--A pregnant or postpartum child may not be placed in seclusion in any facility in this Commonwealth.

(b) Alternative discipline.--Forms of discipline for a pregnant or postpartum child shall be limited to sanctions or other common forms of alternative discipline used in the United States.

(c) Exclusion.--A pregnant or postpartum child may be placed in exclusion only as a temporary response to behavior that poses a serious and immediate risk of physical harm to the pregnant or postpartum child, another child, staff or the unborn child of the pregnant child. The following apply:

(1) The decision to place a pregnant or postpartum child in exclusion under this subsection must be approved by the individual in charge of the facility.

(2) The rationale for the decision to use exclusion must be documented as required by section 6387 (relating to reports relating to pregnant or postpartum child).

(3) Periods of exclusion shall be in accordance with departmental regulations.

(d) Bed assignments.--The facility may not assign a pregnant child to any bed that is elevated more than three feet from the floor of the facility.