The proposed legislation, General Assembly Raised Bill No. 156, aims to establish a task force dedicated to studying the voluntary surrender of infants in Connecticut. This task force will analyze existing statutes related to the voluntary surrender process, specifically sections 17a-57 to 17a-60 and section 17a-61 of the general statutes, as well as the policies and procedures of the Department of Children and Families and hospitals regarding this issue. A key focus of the study will be to identify and address any racial, ethnic, health, economic, and socioeconomic disparities that may affect parents who choose to voluntarily surrender their infants.

The task force will consist of nine members, including experts in public health policy, child welfare policy, and social equity, as well as representatives from hospitals and parents who have experienced the voluntary surrender process. The task force will be chaired by members selected by the speaker of the House and the president pro tempore of the Senate, and it is required to submit a report of its findings and recommendations by May 1, 2027. The bill also includes provisions for the appointment of members and the administrative support for the task force, with the task force set to terminate upon the submission of its report or on May 1, 2027, whichever is later.