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Bill

Bill

SB 1073

Relating to: installation of a newborn infant safety device at an emergency medical services station.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Dianne Hesselbein and 2 co-sponsors

Wisconsin bill mandates safe infant surrender devices at EMS stations to provide legal anonymous alternatives for parents unable to care for newborns.

Failed to pass pursuant to Senate Joint Resolution 1
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 1073

Legislative bill overview

SB 1073 requires Wisconsin emergency medical services (EMS) stations to install newborn infant safety devices—commonly known as "safe haven" or "baby boxes." These devices allow parents to anonymously and safely surrender newborns without legal consequences. The bill mandates installation at EMS stations as a designated safe location where infants can be left.

Why is this important

Safe haven laws aim to prevent infanticide and unsafe abandonment by providing a legal alternative for parents in crisis. By placing these devices at EMS stations—which operate 24/7—the bill expands access to this safety option beyond hospitals. This addresses real cases where parents have abandoned infants in dangerous locations due to desperation or lack of awareness of legal alternatives.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation costs: EMS stations may face expenses for device installation, maintenance, and staff training to operate the program
  • Scope and effectiveness: Questions about whether EMS stations are the optimal location versus hospitals, and whether devices actually reduce infanticide rates versus simply relocating the problem
  • Privacy and parental rights concerns: Tension between protecting parental anonymity and ensuring proper medical evaluation, paternity establishment, and potential future family reunification
  • Resource burden on EMS: Concerns that adding non-emergency infant care responsibilities may distract from emergency medical response capabilities

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

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