Michigan Banned Child Restraints in Transport
New legislation prohibits private transport companies from using blindfolds and restraints on children.
Updated on Oct. 5, 2026 in Special Needs
Live Poll
Should states regulate private transportation companies to ensure children are treated humanely during transport?
Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed House Bill 5514 into law, establishing strict rules for private transportation services operating in the state. The measure specifically bans the use of physical restraints and blindfolds on minors during transit.
Why it matters
This law addresses safety and welfare concerns raised by families regarding the treatment of children during private transport. The legislation follows testimony from Paris Hilton regarding her own past experiences with such transport services.
House Bill 5514 restricts transport services for minors to daytime hours, barring movement between 9 p.m. and 6 a.m. The law also mandates an end to the use of blindfolds and restraints by these providers.
The players
Gretchen Whitmer
The Governor of Michigan who signed the bill into law.
Cam Cavitt
A State Representative serving Northern Michigan who introduced House Bill 5514.
Paris Hilton
A public figure and advocate who testified in support of the legislation based on her personal experiences with transport services.
The details
The new regulations target the operational methods of private companies that often transport children to various facilities or programs. By mandating an overnight transport freeze and outlawing restrictive devices, the state aims to protect minors from potentially abusive handling. The law was championed by State Representative Cam Cavitt, drawing on testimony to highlight the necessity of these protections.
Timeline
October 5, 2026: Governor signed House Bill 5514 into law.
The Home Front
This legislation marks a significant expansion of state-level oversight regarding the private transport of minors. It follows a growing trend of legislative scrutiny aimed at ensuring the safety and accountability of companies providing specialized transport services.
If you are evaluating private transportation services for your child, verify that the provider complies with these new Michigan state regulations. Review all company contracts to confirm they do not include prohibited practices like the use of restraints or overnight transport.
The takeaway
Families should remain vigilant and ask direct questions about safety policies when selecting any private care or transport service for their children. Always request written documentation regarding how a company manages child safety and equipment during transit.
Further reading
Learn more about advocacy and safety resources for families in our Special Needs section.
Live Poll
Should states regulate private transportation companies to ensure children are treated humanely during transport?
