Bill > A08649

This bill establishes the "Safe Haven Baby Box Act," which provides a legal mechanism for parents to anonymously and safely surrender newborn infants up to 30 days old without fear of criminal prosecution. The bill defines a "safe haven baby box" as a secure, climate-controlled device installed at 24/7 staffed facilities like hospitals, police stations, fire stations, and emergency medical service locations. These baby boxes must automatically lock when an infant is placed inside, immediately alert facility personnel, be accessible only from the interior by authorized staff, include interior cushioning and temperature regulation, and be approved by the Office of Children and Family Services. The legislation amends the penal law to create a legal defense against child endangerment charges for parents who use these baby boxes, provided they deliver the child to an authorized facility and, if not directly handing the child to a person, notify an appropriate individual about the child's location. The Office of Children and Family Services is required to develop public information programs, create necessary regulations, establish safety standards, provide staff training, and conduct public awareness campaigns to support the implementation of this act.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A8649