Frye's bill to expand use of Baby Boxes advances to Senate

Indiana's Safe Haven Law enables a parent to surrender an infant fewer than 30 days old.

(Indianapolis, Ind.) - The Indiana House of Representatives Tuesday voted unanimously in support of State Rep. Randy Frye's (R-Greensburg) legislation that would make it easier for communities across the state to install Safe Haven Baby Boxes.

Indiana's Safe Haven Law enables a parent to surrender an infant fewer than 30 days old to any hospital emergency room, fire station, police station, or Safe Haven Baby Box within the state without fear of prosecution.

"This bill will help save the lives of newborn babies and serves as a last resort for a parent in crisis,” Frye said. “Indiana continues to be a national leader when it comes to protecting our most vulnerable. While we hope it’s never used, this is a safe, anonymous choice for distraught parents or caregivers to leave a newborn in the care of emergency responders."

The bill would allow communities to install a baby box at a volunteer fire station located in a municipality with a full-time police department. Counties with professional emergency medical service providers with a 24/7 staffed facility could also install these boxes under this legislation.

House Bill 1032 now moves to the Senate for further consideration. To learn more and watch legislative proceedings, visit iga.in.gov.