Idaho Safe Haven Act

Enacted in 2001, the Idaho Safe Haven Act offers a legal framework similar to those in various other states aimed at safeguarding abandoned infants. This legislation addresses situations where young parents, fearing repercussions or feeling lost, abandon their newborns. The Act allows parents to bring their baby to designated safe havens, ensuring anonymity and protection from prosecution for abandonment. Recognized safe havens include licensed hospitals, physicians, and qualified medical personnel in Idaho. The law enables these safe havens to take temporary custody of a child, without needing a court order, as long as the child is no older than 30 days, is delivered by the parent, and the parent does not intend to reclaim the child. Services are offered in English, with interpreters available. For the intake process, individuals should reach out for specific procedures.