Adds new GS 7B-521A allowing a qualified establishment (a physical building of an emergency department, a law enforcement agency, or a fire department that is staffed 24 hours per day by employees) to install a newborn safety device that has a temperature-controlled interior, is properly ventilated to ensure the safety of infants, and physically attached to the exterior of the qualified establishment in an area that is conspicuous and visible to employees. Requires the establishment to comply with five listed criteria, including installing an adequate dual alarm system connected to the physical location of the newborn safety device, weekly testing, visual inspection of the device at least twice per day, and development of an emergency plan for rendering of emergency care to an infant. Allows the qualified establishments to take custody of a surrendered infant under GS 7B-521 through placement in a newborn safety device. Requires the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Division of Social Services, to annually inspect each newborn safety device installed in accordance with this statute. DHHS must also perform an initial inspection prior to the newborn safety device becoming operational.
Modifies the immunity of a parent surrendering an infant under GS 7B-527 to clarify that the immunity does not create an affirmative defense to any prosecution arising from any other acts taken by the surrendering parent.
Effective October 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Filed: 7B-521, 7B-527
Edition 1: 7B-521, 7B-527