Abandoned infants bill becomes law

By STEPHANIE BRAMMER-BARNES
Kentucky Cabinet for Families and Children

FRANKFORT — The 2002 General Assembly passed Senate Bill 55, emergency legislation signed by Governor Paul Patton on April 9, 2002.

Under this new law:

• A parent may anonymously place a newborn infant that is less than seventy-two (72) hours old with an emergency medical services provider, hospital, police station, or fire station.

• A parent who leaves a newborn infant will not be criminally prosecuted for abandonment. No law enforcement authorities will be contacted and the parent’s identity will not be asked. However, the guarantees of anonymity and immunity from prosecution will not apply if the infant has been physically abused or neglected after birth.

• A parent who leaves a newborn infant may provide medical information by completing a background information form. The form may be filled out immediately or mailed to the Cabinet for Families and Children at a later date. A parent is encouraged to complete the form, but providing this information is voluntary.

• An emergency medical services provider, hospital staff person, police officer, or fire fighter will make available to each parent information regarding family services, termination of parental rights, and adoption.

• Each infant will receive any needed medical care.

• Upon release from the hospital, the Cabinet for Families and Children will place the infant in a foster home.

• If a parent fails to contact the Cabinet within thirty (30) days after leaving the infant at an appropriate or designated location, the Cabinet will proceed with involuntary termination of parental rights and placement of the child for adoption pursuant to KRS Chapter 625.

It is hoped that as this new law becomes more widely known, mothers will realize that options exist and their community cares. Help is available!

For additional information, contact: 1-800-752-6200

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