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HB 350

CRIMINAL LAW-TECH

104th Regular Session Introduced by Chris Welch

House Bill 350 enhances protections for newborns in Georgia by allowing safe surrenders at designated facilities, ensuring mothers can avoid prosecution for abandonment.

Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 350

Summary of House Bill 350: Safe Places for Newborns

Bill Overview

Bill Number: HB 350
Title: Domestic relations; safe places for newborns; revise provisions
Status: House Withdrawn, Recommitted
Introduced: February 10, 2025
Classification: Bill

House Bill 350 aims to amend existing laws in Georgia regarding the safe surrender of newborns. The bill seeks to enhance protections for newborns and provide clearer guidelines for facilities that accept abandoned infants.

Main Purpose and Intent

The primary goal of HB 350 is to prevent injuries and fatalities among newborns that may occur when mothers abandon their infants. The bill establishes legal protections for mothers who leave their newborns in designated safe locations, thereby encouraging safe surrenders rather than abandonment.

Key Provisions

Amendments to Title 19

  • Definitions: The bill revises definitions related to safe places for newborns, including:

    • Ambulance Service: Licensed providers authorized to accept custody of newborns.
    • Newborn Safety Device: A monitored receptacle for safely placing newborns.

  • Custody Acceptance:

    • Mothers can leave newborns (up to 30 days old) at medical facilities, fire stations, police stations, or ambulance services without facing prosecution for abandonment, provided they show proof of identity if willing.

  • Transport and Care:

    • Facilities accepting newborns must arrange for immediate transport to the nearest medical facility and notify the Department of Human Services (DHS).
    • DHS is required to take custody of the newborn within six hours of notification.

  • Limited Liability:

    • Facilities and their staff are granted immunity from civil damages or criminal prosecution for actions taken under this chapter, except in cases of negligent treatment.

  • Newborn Safety Devices:

    • Facilities may install safety devices that must meet specific alarm system requirements to ensure the safety of the newborns placed inside.

  • Public Awareness:

    • DHS will develop standards for signage at facilities to inform the public about safe surrender options.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Mothers: The bill provides legal protections for mothers who may feel compelled to abandon their newborns.
  • Medical Facilities, Fire Stations, Police Stations, and Ambulance Services: These entities will have defined roles and responsibilities in accepting newborns and ensuring their safety.
  • Department of Human Services: DHS will oversee the process of custody transfer and care for surrendered newborns.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was introduced on February 10, 2025, and has undergone several legislative actions, including being favorably reported by a House committee on February 20, 2025. However, it was withdrawn and recommitted on April 4, 2025, indicating further review or amendments may be necessary.

Conclusion

House Bill 350 represents a significant effort to improve the safety and welfare of newborns in Georgia by providing clear guidelines for safe surrender practices and establishing protections for mothers. The proposed changes aim to facilitate a supportive environment for both mothers and newborns, ultimately reducing the risks associated with abandonment.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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