Governor Ron DeSantis has given his signature to a bill permitting parents to relinquish their babies up to 30 days old without facing legal repercussions. This legislation expands on Florida’s existing “safe haven” law, which previously only allowed for the surrender of babies up to seven days old.
Under the new law, parents can surrender their newborns either at a hospital or by calling 911, without fear of criminal charges. They must inform hospital staff of their decision to voluntarily surrender their child, with no intention of reclaiming them. Previously, newborns had to be surrendered at emergency rooms or fire stations.
The law provides anonymity to parents as long as there are no signs of child abuse or neglect. It is slated to take effect on July 1.
HB 775 passed through the Florida Legislature without opposition or debate in committee hearings or on the floors of the chambers. Republican Representative Jennifer Canady of Polk County, one of the bill’s sponsors, highlighted that allowing parents to call 911 to surrender a child would be particularly beneficial for those without access to transportation.
Since the implementation of Florida’s “safe haven” law in 2000, approximately 380 babies have been surrendered at fire stations, emergency medical services, and hospitals, as per legislative analysis.
DeSantis’ approval of the bill on Wednesday evening follows closely behind the enactment of the state’s six-week abortion ban nearly a month ago.
