Minnesota Attorney General Ellison Provides Further Explanation on Use of Force under SRO Law

Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison has issued a second legal clarification regarding a law that prohibits certain restraints by school resource officers (SROs). The law bans the use of restraints that restrict breathing, hinder communication, or place pressure on the neck, head, or torso. Ellison clarified that the law still allows for "reasonable force" to prevent injury or death, including physical contact when a student poses a threat to themselves or others. However, nearly 40 law enforcement agencies have suspended their SRO programs due to concerns about liability and potential sanctions. Republican lawmakers and law enforcement groups are urging Governor Tim Walz to call a special session to clarify the law.