Senate Bill 1073 aims to expand the safe haven law in Wisconsin by allowing emergency medical services (EMS) stations to install newborn infant safety devices. Currently, only hospitals, fire stations, and law enforcement agencies are permitted to have these devices, which enable parents to safely relinquish custody of their newborns. The bill defines an EMS station as a facility staffed with emergency medical services practitioners that is not a hospital or fire station. The legislation includes several amendments to existing statutes, ensuring that the criteria for installing these devices, such as 24-hour staffing and surveillance capabilities, are met.

The bill also modifies provisions related to the relinquishment process, allowing parents who cannot reach designated locations to call 911 or an emergency medical service provider for assistance. It emphasizes the importance of monitoring the safety devices and maintaining their functionality. Overall, the bill seeks to enhance the options available for parents wishing to safely surrender their newborns while ensuring that the necessary safety measures are in place at these newly authorized locations.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 48.195(1b)(b), 48.195, 48.195(1m)(b), 48.195(1r)(b), 48.195(2)(b)