Proposal would limit restraint training for developmental disability service workers

Nebraska’s Department of Health and Human Services would limit which workers it requires to learn how to physically restrain people. The limits would cover full-time, part-time, temporary, and contract workers at state-licensed or state-certified providers serving people with developmental disabilities. The agency could require this training only when a worker’s duties may reasonably require physically restraining someone. Restraint training and related requirements could not exceed the minimum needed to comply with federal law or regulations. If enacted, the limits would cover existing training requirements and those issued, renewed, or enforced on or after the act’s effective date. No calendar date is stated.

The Department of Health and Human Services would offer at least two ways to meet required physical restraint training. The choices would cover workers at state-licensed or state-certified providers serving people with developmental disabilities. The agency would have to offer these choices whenever it requires physical restraint training. At least one choice would let providers train their own workers through a program that meets federal safety and content standards. If enacted, this rule would cover existing training requirements and those issued, renewed, or enforced on or after the act’s effective date.