The Missouri House of Representatives has unanimously approved a bill aimed at increasing the number of baby safe haven boxes in the state. These boxes allow parents to anonymously surrender their newborns in a safe, climate-controlled environment. The bill would fund the installation of these boxes at more hospitals and fire stations across Missouri.
Rep. Jim Murphy, R-St. Louis, is sponsoring the legislation, which proposes creating a state fund to match up to $10,000 for each box installation.
“We need to accelerate this program, especially after the events of November’s Amendment 3,” Murphy said. “These boxes save lives and offer a crucial alternative for parents in need.”
Currently, Missouri has two baby safe haven boxes, located in Mehlville and Cedar Hill, with a third planned for Eureka later this month. Murphy also mentioned that eight more are in development.
In some communities, private fundraising is helping to install additional boxes. Rep. Dean Van Schoiack, R-Savannah, announced that a baby safe haven box will be placed at a Savannah fire station this summer.
“Two young women in our town raised the funds to place this box, and they’ve explained how it works and the quick response time from emergency services,” Van Schoiack said. “While we hope it’s never used, it’s there to save a baby if needed.”
The drop-off boxes are equipped with bassinets and are temperature-controlled. When a baby is placed inside, emergency responders are immediately notified.
Under Missouri law, parents can surrender newborns up to 45 days old at a designated drop-off box without facing prosecution. House Bill 121 would extend the age limit to 90 days.
Rep. Marlene Terry expressed strong support for the bill, saying, “It’s essential to ensure the safety of newborns, and every community should have access to these baby incubators.”
The bill will now move to the Senate for further consideration.
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