Senator Hinkins expands Utah's newborn safe haven law to 90 days

On February 7, 2025, the Utah Senate Health and Human Services Committee convened to discuss significant amendments to the state's newborn safe haven law, encapsulated in Senate Bill 57. This bill aims to expand the definition of a newborn eligible for safe relinquishment from 30 days to 90 days, reflecting a growing trend among states to provide more extended periods for parents to safely surrender their infants.

Senator Hinkins, who introduced the bill, emphasized the importance of this legislation in preventing tragic outcomes for unwanted infants. Currently, Utah's law allows birth parents or designated individuals to anonymously relinquish a newborn at any hospital without the need for identification or questioning. This process is designed to ensure the safety and well-being of the child, with the Department of Child and Family Services (DCFS) responsible for finding a loving home for the surrendered infants.

The proposed amendments also include funding to enhance educational efforts regarding the safe haven law, which has been a topic of discussion since last year. The senator highlighted that many lives have been saved due to this law, although exact numbers are not available. The most recent known safe relinquishment occurred in October 2024.

Patrice Aren't, a former state senator and the chair of the Newborn Safe Haven advisory board, provided testimony supporting the bill. She recounted the origins of the law, which was established in response to alarming reports of infants being abandoned in unsafe conditions. Aren't noted that hospitals were chosen as the designated locations for relinquishment due to their accessibility and the assurance that help would be available.

The committee unanimously adopted the first substitute for SB 57, signaling strong support for the proposed changes. The discussions highlighted the ongoing commitment of Utah lawmakers to protect vulnerable infants and provide safe options for parents in crisis. As the bill moves forward, it is expected to foster greater awareness and utilization of the safe haven law, ultimately aiming to reduce the number of abandoned infants in the state.