Bill > S1058

This bill amends the Idaho Safe Haven Act to clarify and expand provisions related to abandoned newborn children. The bill introduces a new definition of "Indian child" and modifies existing definitions of safe havens, which now include various medical and emergency personnel locations. The legislation allows parents to safely surrender infants up to 30 days old at designated safe havens or through newborn safety devices without fear of prosecution for abandonment. The bill adds specific requirements for newborn safety devices, such as temperature control and alarm systems. It also updates procedures for handling abandoned children, requiring the Department of Health and Welfare to maintain a list of licensed adoption agencies and transfer custody within 24 hours, with provisions for medical care if needed. Importantly, the bill now includes specific protocols for cases involving Indian children, mandating notification to the child's tribe or the Bureau of Indian Affairs in accordance with the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA). The changes aim to provide a safe, confidential, and structured process for parents who cannot care for their newborns while ensuring the child's immediate safety and potential placement with adoptive families. The bill will take effect on July 1, 2025.

Health and Social Services, Justice

Health and Welfare Committee (Senate)

https://legislature.idaho.gov/sessioninfo/2025/legislation/S1058/