The bill amends sections 49-4-201 and 49-4-206 of the West Virginia Code to expand the locations designated as safe surrender sites for relinquishing newborns. It allows emergency medical service facilities, police departments, 911 call centers, and sheriff's detachments to be designated as safe surrender sites, in addition to hospitals and fire departments. The bill also permits these entities to take necessary actions to protect the health and safety of the child upon receiving a surrendered infant and allows for the installation of newborn safety devices at these locations.

Additionally, the bill outlines the requirements for the newborn safety devices, including the need for a dual alarm system and continuous staffing by licensed emergency medical services providers. It ensures that individuals who relinquish a child through these devices can remain anonymous and are not pursued legally, while also providing immunity from liability for emergency medical services providers acting in good faith. The bill aims to enhance the safety and well-being of newborns by providing more accessible options for safe surrender.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 49-4-201, 49-4-206
Committee Substitute: 49-4-201, 49-4-206
Enrolled Committee Substitute: 49-4-201, 49-4-206