April 4 | Safe Haven Awareness Day

In honor of the second annual Safe Haven Awareness Day on April 4th, I would like to take a moment to recognize the progress that the State of Connecticut has made regarding Safe Haven law. It is an honor to be part of a dedicated team bringing this lifesaving legislation to fruition in the state.

Safe Haven law helps prevent the crime of neonaticide by allowing anyone to drop off a newborn baby within the first 30 days of life at any hospital emergency room in Connecticut. The person dropping off the baby — whether it is the infant’s mother, father, grandparents or a family friend — will be given a bracelet matching one put on the infant by hospital staff. The police will not be called and no one will be arrested, as long as the infant has not been abused. If the parents change their minds within 30 days, they may petition to get the baby back.

Since its passage in 2000, Connecticut’s Safe Haven law has saved 27 infants from fatal abandonment. Additionally, parent(s) have been saved from incarceration for child abandonment.

Unfortunately, a newborn’s life was taken as recently as this month due to a distressed parent’s belief that there was no other alternative. Communication and education about Safe Haven law must continue in our state. Understanding the law, how it works, and sharing this knowledge with others will make a difference and help save lives.

Look for this sign at your local hospital

Best Regards,