The bill amends section 50-25.1-15 of the North Dakota Century Code to enhance the procedures surrounding the abandonment of infants in newborn safety devices. It defines "abandoned infant" as one left at an approved location, such as a hospital, either with an on-duty staff member or in a newborn safety device if the infant is less than sixty days old. The bill introduces specific criteria for what constitutes a "newborn safety device," including requirements for its physical structure, staffing, temperature control, and alarm systems. It also clarifies that parents or their agents are not subject to prosecution for leaving an infant under these circumstances and that approved locations are not required to possess a newborn safety device.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that if an infant is left in a newborn safety device, the approved location cannot inquire about the identity of the parent or agent, ensuring confidentiality. It mandates that the approved location report the abandonment to the department within twenty-four hours and provides immunity from civil or criminal liability for accepting the infant. The bill also outlines the responsibilities of the department in cases where the infant may have been harmed and emphasizes the development of a public awareness campaign to inform the community about these provisions.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 50-25.1-15
Adopted by the House Human Services Committee: 50-25.1-15
FIRST ENGROSSMENT: 50-25.1-15
Prepared by the Legislative Council staff for House Appropriations Committee: 50-25.1-15
SECOND ENGROSSMENT: 50-25.1-15
Adopted by the Senate Human Services Committee: 50-25.1-15
Enrollment: 50-25.1-15