SB24-083 Summary

• Authorizes fire stations, hospitals, freestanding emergency departments, and community clinic emergency centers to install newborn safety devices for voluntary relinquishment of children 72 hours old or younger.

• Requires newborn safety devices to be installed in conspicuous locations within structural walls with exterior doors that automatically lock and interior doors allowing staff to secure the child, and must be equipped with dual alarm systems.

• Facilities installing devices must bear all costs, test alarm systems weekly, inspect twice daily, and provide parents with information about reunification, DNA testing, counseling resources, and medical services.

• Replaces references to "abandonment" with "relinquishment" throughout Colorado law and updates safe haven law provisions in education curriculum statutes.

• Takes effect 90 days after final adjournment of the general assembly, or if subject to referendum petition, upon voter approval at the November 2024 general election.