Invite Legislators to See Your Setting IV Program Before Session

Seclusion has drawn growing attention at the Minnesotas Capitol, including through a 2025 interim working group that MASE took part in. While the group's recommendations did not advance, this issue is likely to return in 2027—and advocates pushing for a ban could find new momentum. Most legislators have limited firsthand knowledge of how seclusion is used, why it exists as a safety tool, and what state law already requires of districts. The weeks between the election and the start of session (January 12) are the best time to change that.

If your district operates a Setting IV program and uses seclusion, we encourage you to invite your senators and representatives for a short visit this fall or early winter. A 30-to-45-minute tour and conversation with staff who work directly with students can show legislators how seclusion is used as a last resort to keep students and staff safe, not as discipline.

MASE has developed an advocacy toolkit with a sample invitation, tips for planning a successful visit, and guidance on what to bring. Please log your visit in the MASE contact log, included in the toolkit, so we can track your outreach heading into session. We also developed a handout to give to your legislators.

Don’t hesitate to reach out to MASE lobbyist Valerie Dosland at valeried@ewald.com if you have questions or would like support as your plan for your visits.