The bill amends the Safe Haven for Infants Act to introduce the concept of "safe haven baby boxes," which are designated infant safety devices located at safe haven sites, allowing parents to anonymously surrender their infants. The bill outlines procedures for parents to relinquish infants, ensuring they are not subject to criminal prosecution for abandonment or abuse if the infant is left in a safe condition and is no more than ninety days old. Additionally, it specifies that parents may remain anonymous during the relinquishment process and provides guidelines for the safe haven sites to follow upon receiving an infant.

Furthermore, the bill establishes that if parents do not contact the Children, Youth and Families Department within ninety days of relinquishing their infant, the department is required to file a motion to terminate parental rights. It also mandates that the department must conduct an investigation upon receiving a report of an infant left at a safe haven site or in a baby box, ensuring the infant's condition does not constitute abandonment or abuse. The bill emphasizes the importance of public outreach to educate the community about the Safe Haven for Infants Act and its provisions.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 24-22-2, 24-22-3, 24-22-4, 24-22-5, 32A-4-17.1