Hilton has successfully advocated for a new law aimed at enhancing transparency in the use of restraints and seclusion rooms at residential treatment centers for children and youth up to age 21 in California. This legislation, which takes effect on January 1, mandates that any use of restraints or seclusion must be documented in a report to both the affected child and their parent or guardian. The report must detail the incident, including the staff involved, the rationale for the actions taken, the duration of the incident, and other pertinent information.
Furthermore, within seven days of the incident, a copy of this report must be submitted to the California Department of Social Services (CDSS), which will then review the incident for any health and safety violations and launch investigations if necessary. Starting January 1, 2026, the CDSS will also be required to publish data regarding these incidents on its website, allowing parents and guardians to make informed decisions about sending their children to these facilities.
Paris Hilton emerged as a prominent supporter of this bipartisan legislation, sharing her personal experiences of abuse in youth treatment centers while advocating for change at the state Capitol. In her statement, she expressed hope that California would serve as a model for transparency and accountability in these critical services.
This law builds on California’s previous actions to protect vulnerable youth. In 2021, the state prohibited the sending of troubled youth, including foster children, to out-of-state, for-profit treatment centers after numerous abuse allegations. Subsequently, California established short-term therapeutic facilities licensed by the social services department and funded crisis residential treatment facilities in 2022 for children enrolled in Medi-Cal.
This new legislation not only aims to protect youth in residential treatment centers but also signifies a positive shift towards more accountability and oversight in the mental health care system for young individuals, showcasing a commitment to their safety and well-being.
In summary, the law heralds a new era of transparency in California’s treatment facilities, promoting a safer environment for young people.