The bill H. 3113 amends Section 63-7-40 of the South Carolina Code of Laws to enhance the provisions regarding infant safe havens by allowing the use of newborn safety devices. The legislation stipulates that a safe haven must take temporary custody of an infant voluntarily left by a person who does not intend to return for the child. It requires that the infant be left in the physical custody of a staff member or in a newborn safety device if available. The bill also mandates that safe havens provide information about the legal implications of leaving an infant and attempt to gather background information about the infant's medical history.

Additionally, the bill outlines the responsibilities of the Department of Social Services upon receiving custody of an infant, including notifying law enforcement to ensure the infant is not missing and publishing notices regarding the infant's status. It establishes that individuals who leave an infant at a safe haven or in a newborn safety device are protected from prosecution, provided certain conditions are met. The bill also defines key terms such as "infant" and "newborn safety device," and requires the department to report annually on the infants coming into custody under this section, ensuring that no identifying information is disclosed.

Statutes affected:
12/05/2024: 63-7-40
Latest Version: 63-7-40