State Rep. Tim Ackert Speaks at Safe Havens Act for Newborns

(Hartford)- Representative Tim Ackert recently attended and spoke at the Safe Havens Act for Newborns which was hosted by Lt. Governor Susan Bysiewicz, the Department of Children and Families, and the Connecticut Hospital Association. Safe Havens Act for Newborns has been highlighted in honor of Child Abuse Prevention Month.  

The act allows a parent to voluntarily leave an infant that's under 30 days old without facing abandonment charges. While medical information regarding the infant will be asked, the parent does not have to give her name or any personal information.  

There is a 30-day window for potential reunification once the infant is given to the hospital emergency department. After the infant is left for 24 hours, DCF will then begin planning adoption arrangements. After the 30 days, the infant will be placed with an adoptive family. 

“I strongly support legislation that we passed that helps women who find themselves struggling with a newborn find support services. This act has helped infants be placed in safer environments with high quality of care,” said Rep. Tim Ackert. “But unfortunately, many individuals do not know about this service, and we need to better market the good work that we do here in the state legislator. I will continue to push for advertising using already available services at no cost.” 

Since this act was passed in 2000, a total of 59 infants have been given up to Connecticut Emergency Hospitals. Every year the Safe Havens Act for Newborns will be highlighted to spread the word about this program for those who may not be aware of it.