Preventing Infant Abandonment: Understanding Texas’ Safe Haven Law
In the past week, two newborn babies were tragically found dead in Harris County, Texas. This alarming trend has prompted law enforcement to remind parents about the Safe Haven or Baby Moses Law in Texas.
The Safe Haven or Baby Moses Law in Texas allows parents of newborn babies to safely surrender their infants at designated locations, such as hospitals or fire stations, without facing legal repercussions. This law aims to prevent instances of child abandonment and ensure that newborns are provided with the care they need.
John Nanny Harris with HCSO emphasized the importance of the law in light of recent incidents, stating, “There apparently has been a little bit of an epidemic so I’d like to mention the Baby Moses law.”
Educating the public about the Safe Haven law is crucial in the fight against child abandonment. Monica Kelsey, from Safe Haven Baby Boxes, emphasized the need for continued education and awareness in schools, crisis pregnancy centers, and other community settings.
Recent cases of infant abandonment in the Houston area highlight the importance of following the Safe Haven law. From babies found in a concrete industrial plant to infants abandoned near dumpsters, there have been several heartbreaking incidents that could have been prevented if the law had been adhered to.
If you are considering surrendering your baby under the Safe Haven law, here are some important points to keep in mind:
- Your baby must be 60 days old or younger and unharmed.
- You can take your baby to a hospital, fire station, or EMS station in Texas.
- You will not be prosecuted for abandonment if you leave your baby at a Safe Haven.
For more information about the Safe Haven or Baby Moses Law in Texas, visit the Baby Moses Project or call the Texas Baby Moses Hotline at 1-877-904-SAVE (1-877-904-7283).
It is essential to raise awareness about this important law to prevent future tragedies and ensure the safety and well-being of newborn babies in Texas.