State Rep. Cam Cavitt today championed the successful House vote on his bill to protect children being transferred to youth treatment centers. 

House Bill 5514, introduced by Cavitt, will protect children who are transported to residential youth treatment programs by private transportation companies. The bill prohibits companies from using blindfolds, hoods, handcuffs, chains, or other restraints on children during the transportation process. It also prevents these transportation companies from picking up children between 9 p.m. and 6 a.m. 

“This is a massive win for child safety in our state,” said Cavitt (R-Cheboygan). “These transportation companies have been subjecting these kids to traumatizing experiences. Why would you simulate a kidnapping against a child you already believe to be at behavioral risk? It’s sick. These transportation practices are incredibly damaging to these kids. We’ve heard testimony from Paris Hilton and other survivors, and we’ve brought the horrific reality of these methods to light. I’m glad we’re putting a stop to it.” 

Cavitt continued by praising the bipartisan support for the bill. 

“The well-being of Michigan’s children should not be controversial,” Cavitt said. “I’m glad that Republicans and Democrats were able to come together in the House to offer a real solution to a problem that is directly harming kids.” 

The bill now heads to the Senate for further consideration.