Reps. Sredzinski Promotes Education on Save Haven Law

From the Connecticut House Republican Office: State Representative JP Sredzinski (R-112) is urging public education on the importance of a lifesaving bill in honor of the second annual Safe Haven Law Awareness Day on April 4.

Since its passage in 2000, Connecticut’s Safe Haven Law has saved 27 infants from abandonment and near certain death. The law has also protected the parents from the possibility of incarceration and a life of regret from having ended their infants’ lives in a moment of panic.

The Safe Haven Law, enacted in 2000, helps prevent the death of newborn babies by allowing anyone to drop off a newborn (within the first 30 days of life) at any hospital emergency room in Connecticut without fear of repercussion. The person dropping off the baby — whether it’s the infant’s mother, father, grandparents or a family friend — is given a bracelet matching one put on the infant by hospital staff. Assuming there are no signs of abuse on the infant, the police will not be called and no one will be arrested. If the parents of the baby change their minds within 30 days, they may petition to get the baby back.

“Recognizing Safe Haven Day is crucial because of the need to inform a new generation of people who may not be aware of this important law that was passed 17 years ago,” said Rep. Sredzinski. “We have this law on the books to make sure vulnerable young women in distress know they have an option to surrender a baby safely to a hospital who they otherwise might not be able to care for. Part of the battle in this is just spreading the word about Safe Haven Law so that agonizing and regretful actions are not taken. That’s why I will continue to work with local hospitals and any other helpful organization to build awareness for this law and help women in this situation.”

Photo courtesy of the Connecticut House Republican Office