How Does the Safe Haven Law Work

The law allows a parent or legal guardian to confidentially surrender an infant, three days old or younger, to any hospital emergency room. As long as the baby has not been abused or neglected, the person may surrender the baby without fear of arrest or prosecution for child abandonment.

Can you really drop babies off at the fire station?

The Abandoned Infant Newborn Protection Act requires that every fire station must accept a relinquished newborn infant in accordance with the law. After the relinquishment of a newborn infant, fire station personnel must arrange for the transportation of the infant to the nearest hospital.

Is safe haven anonymous?

Safe Havens are not completely anonymous While Safe Haven laws generally allow parents to remain anonymous, meaning some states won’t compel them to reveal their identity, it’s still not completely anonymous.