Vt. ceases routine use of restraints in transporting youths: new legislation also covers adults, pregnant inmates.

A previously little-known policy in which Vermont residents in mental health crisis were being routinely transported to treatment using mechanical restraints has been altered as a result of new legislation adopted and signed this spring.

The issue was thrust into the public's consciousness last year after the father of an 11-year-old autistic boy deemed to need emergency care snapped pictures of his son as he was being transported to treatment in handcuffs and leg irons. Media attention surrounding the incident led to an outcry among mental health advocacy groups when they learned that use of restraints had long been standard procedure among health and child welfare officials regardless of whether the individual was posing a threat or a flight risk.

After efforts to resolve the matter with state officials showed …