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SB 893

Relating to: termination of parental rights under the safe haven law. (FE)

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by André Jacque and 1 co-sponsor

Wisconsin bill modifies safe haven law procedures for terminating parental rights when infants are surrendered, affecting adoption timelines and legal protections.

Failed to pass pursuant to Senate Joint Resolution 1
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 893

Legislative bill overview

SB 893 modifies Wisconsin's safe haven law, which allows parents to surrender newborns anonymously without legal consequences. The bill appears to alter provisions related to how parental rights are terminated under this law, though the specific amendments aren't detailed in the available information. The measure has moved through committee with mixed support and is now available for floor consideration.

Why is this important

Safe haven laws balance child welfare with parental circumstances by providing legal pathways for parents unable to care for infants. Changes to termination procedures could affect adoption timelines, the rights of potential adoptive parents, legal clarity for surrendering parents, and how quickly children can be placed in permanent homes. These modifications have real consequences for vulnerable infants and families navigating difficult situations.

Potential points of contention

  • Parental rights timeline: Questions about how quickly parental rights are terminated after surrender—faster termination expedites adoptions but may concern parents seeking future recourse
  • Documentation and anonymity: Whether maintaining anonymity conflicts with ensuring complete legal termination or identity information needed for medical/genealogical purposes
  • Committee division: The 3-2 vote recommending passage (with a 5-0 procedural vote) suggests underlying disagreement about the bill's approach among committee members

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

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