Michigan Banned Use of Restraints in Child Transport
New legislation protects children during private transit by prohibiting the use of blindfolds and restraints.
Updated on Oct. 5, 2026 in Special Needs
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Governor Gretchen Whitmer has signed House Bill 5514 into law, which sets new safety standards for private transportation companies operating in Michigan. The law specifically bans the use of blindfolds and restraints on children being transported.
Why it matters
The legislation serves as a direct response to parental complaints regarding the treatment of minors during transit, aiming to ensure safer protocols. It follows advocacy and testimony from individuals like Paris Hilton, who shared personal experiences with transport practices.
House Bill 5514 establishes strict prohibitions on equipment and scheduling for private transport companies. The mandate restricts transport operations to daytime hours, explicitly banning the use of blindfolds and mechanical restraints on children.
The players
Gretchen Whitmer
The Governor of Michigan who signed House Bill 5514 into law.
Cam Cavitt
A State Representative from Northern Michigan who introduced House Bill 5514.
Paris Hilton
An advocate who testified in support of the legislation based on her personal experiences with transport.
The details
The law regulates private transport companies by mandating safer handling and scheduling protocols for minors. By prohibiting transportation between 9 p.m. and 6 a.m., the policy seeks to prevent unauthorized or unsafe overnight transit practices that have drawn parental concern. These restrictions effectively limit the autonomy of private services in how they restrain or schedule the movement of children under their care.
Timeline
October 5, 2026: Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed House Bill 5514 into law.
Health Landscape
This legislation marks a departure from limited state oversight regarding private transit services for children. It establishes a new regulatory floor for child safety by restricting operating hours and banning coercive physical equipment.
Parents and guardians utilizing private transportation services for children should confirm that these companies are now in compliance with the new state prohibition of restraints and overnight transit. If you have concerns about the care or safety of a child in transit, discuss these new legal protections with your pediatrician or local authorities.
The takeaway
This law establishes essential safety standards for the transport of children by banning restrictive practices like blindfolding. Families should remain vigilant about the protocols used by any transportation services they employ and report any suspected violations to state regulators.
Further reading
For broader context on supporting children with specific care requirements, explore our resources on Special Needs.
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Should states regulate private transportation companies to ensure children are treated humanely during transport?
