Bill > S07904

This bill establishes the "Safe Haven Baby Box Act," which creates a legal framework for anonymously surrendering infants up to 30 days old at designated safe locations. A "safe haven baby box" is defined as a secure, climate-controlled device installed at 24/7 staffed facilities like hospitals, police stations, fire stations, and emergency medical service locations. The bill specifies that these baby boxes must automatically lock when an infant is placed inside, immediately notify facility personnel, be accessible only to authorized staff, include interior cushioning and temperature regulation, and be approved by the Office of Children and Family Services. The legislation provides a legal defense against child endangerment charges for parents who safely surrender their infant through these baby boxes, with the condition that they notify an appropriate person about the child's location if not directly handing the infant to staff. Additionally, the Office of Children and Family Services is required to develop public awareness campaigns, create safety standards, and provide staff training to support the implementation of this program. The act aims to provide a safe alternative for parents who feel unable to care for their newborn, potentially preventing infant abandonment in unsafe conditions.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S7904