The bill amends existing laws regarding the surrender of infants in Alaska, specifically addressing the conditions under which a parent can safely surrender an infant without facing legal repercussions. It clarifies that a parent who is immune from prosecution can surrender an infant either to a person they believe will care for the infant or by placing the infant in an infant safety device located in designated facilities such as hospitals or police departments. The bill also specifies that the parent’s legal duty to support the infant is extinguished upon safe surrender, provided there is no evidence of prior physical injury to the infant.

Additionally, the bill outlines the responsibilities of individuals or entities receiving surrendered infants, including the requirement to notify the nearest department office and to inform the parent about their rights regarding the infant's identity and medical history. New provisions are introduced for the establishment and operation of infant safety devices, which must meet specific criteria, including being climate-controlled and equipped with emergency response systems. The bill also allows for training of relevant personnel on the surrender process and defines "designated facility" in the context of these regulations. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
SB0009A, AM SB 9, introduced 01/10/2025: 47.10.013, 11.81.500, 25.20.030, 47.10.120, 47.32.900