This bill amends existing laws regarding the surrender of infants in Alaska, specifically under AS 47.10.013. It clarifies the conditions under which a parent can safely surrender an infant without facing legal repercussions. The amendments include new provisions that define the acceptable methods for surrendering an infant, such as leaving the infant with a person the parent believes will care for them or placing the infant in an infant safety device located in designated facilities like hospitals or police departments. The bill also specifies that the parent’s legal duty to support the infant is extinguished if the surrender is conducted safely and without intent to return.

Additionally, the bill outlines the responsibilities of individuals or entities receiving surrendered infants, including the requirement to notify the appropriate department and provide care for the infant. It introduces new subsections detailing the requirements for infant safety devices, such as climate control, visibility, and security features. The bill also allows for training of emergency service providers and defines "designated facility" in relation to the surrender process. The effective date for this legislation is set for July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
HB0064A, AM HB 64, introduced 01/24/2025: 47.10.013, 11.81.500, 25.20.030, 47.10.120, 47.32.900