The bill S. 331 aims to amend Section 63-7-40 of the South Carolina Code of Laws, which pertains to safe havens for abandoned infants. The proposed changes include the introduction of "newborn safety devices," which are padded, climate-controlled receptacles designed for the safe abandonment of infants not more than sixty days old. These devices must be conspicuously located at hospitals, fire stations, law enforcement agencies, or emergency medical services stations, and equipped with a motion sensor and dual alarm system to alert emergency services when an infant is placed inside. The bill also clarifies the responsibilities of safe havens in terms of custody, notification to the Department of Social Services, and the confidentiality of information provided by individuals leaving infants.

Additionally, the bill provides legal protections for individuals who leave infants at safe havens or in newborn safety devices, ensuring they cannot be prosecuted for abandonment if certain conditions are met. It also establishes immunity from civil or criminal liability for safe havens and healthcare professionals acting in accordance with the law. The Department of Social Services is tasked with raising public awareness about these provisions and is required to submit an annual report to the General Assembly detailing data on infants who come into their custody under this section, while ensuring that no identifying information is included. The act will take effect upon approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
02/11/2025: 63-7-40
Latest Version: 63-7-40