Bill > S1690

This bill updates Florida's laws regarding surrendered infants by expanding the options for safely leaving an infant at designated locations. The bill defines an "infant" as a child believed to be 30 days old or younger and introduces the concept of an "infant safety device" - a specialized wall-mounted compartment in hospitals, emergency medical services stations, or fire stations that allows anonymous infant surrender. These devices must meet specific safety criteria, including temperature control, ventilation, dual alarm systems, and 24-hour surveillance. Hospitals, emergency medical services stations, and fire stations using these devices are required to monitor the devices continuously and physically check and test them regularly. Fire stations must also have a system to immediately dispatch first responders when an infant is placed in the device. The legislation maintains existing protections for parents who surrender infants, including the right to remain anonymous and the presumption of consent to terminate parental rights. The bill also updates cross-references in related statutes and is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, providing a mechanism for safe infant surrender that prioritizes the child's safety and the parent's anonymity.

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https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2025/1690