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Lawmakers weigh grants for baby boxes as proponents cite lives saved, opponents cite identity and safety concerns
Summary
House Bill 476 would fund grants for newborn safety "baby boxes" at safe‑haven locations. Proponents, including advocates and some local officials, said boxes have saved infants; opponents, including adoptees and a mental‑health counselor, warned boxes can increase abandonments and deprive children of medical and identity information.
Representative Ranon Gregg presented House Bill 476, proposing a one‑time grant program to fund newborn safety devices (commonly called baby boxes) at designated safe‑haven locations across Montana. The sponsor said grants of up to $20,000 per site and a total biennial allocation of $160,000 would help cities, hospitals and fire stations install climate‑controlled boxes that notify first responders when an infant is placed inside.
Proponents testified that baby boxes provide an anonymous, legal and safe surrender option for parents in crisis who might…
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