Reps. Piscopo, Wilson Promote Awareness of CT’s Safe Haven Law

HARTFORD – In honor of the second annual Safe Havens Awareness Day on April 4, State Representatives John Piscopo (R-76) and David Wilson (R-66) are joining legislators from districts throughout Connecticut in urging public education on the importance of this lifesaving bill.

“The very sad incident that recently occurred in Harwinton where the body of a baby boy was found has had an impact on our local community and the state. It also has provided an opportunity to remind residents in our district and across Connecticut that we have a Safe Haven law, which is a responsible alternative to leaving or discarding infants in unsafe places by allowing a mother to voluntarily and anonymously surrender custody of her infant baby at local hospitals. This effort gives dignity to all life, and provides mothers with the responsible option to relinquish custody of their child, rather than place them in harm’s way,” said Rep. Piscopo.

Since its passage in 2000, Connecticut’s Safe Havens law has saved 27 infants from abandonment and near certain death. The parents, too, of these infants have been saved from possible incarceration and a life overshadowed by the crime of neonaticide, committed in a moment of panic.

“I am proud to promote awareness of the safe haven law in our community and let people know that there is a very safe and responsible way to help families who may be in distress,” said Rep. Wilson. “For those who may be feeling hopeless, before they resort to drastic measures and put their baby in danger, this law protects the innocent while providing a confidential and safe option for parents. I encourage anyone who may be struggling to consider a safe haven for their baby.”

The Safe Havens law, enacted in 2000, 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’s 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, assuming the infant has not been abused. If the parents of the child change their minds within 30 days, they may petition to get the baby back.

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