SB1999 Summary

• Changes terminology from "child-placing agency" to "child welfare agency" throughout the Abandoned Newborn Infant Protection Act and related statutes.

• Extends the time period for reclaiming a relinquished newborn infant from 72 hours to 30 days at fire stations, emergency medical facilities, and police stations.

• Clarifies that establishing an adoption plan is preferable to relinquishment, and adds requirement that hospitals provide all available medical records to the Department and child welfare agencies.

• Modifies procedures for offering information to relinquishing persons, allowing delivery through written materials, websites, or other electronic resources instead of only information packets.

• Adds a requirement that hospitals submit applications for medical assistance on behalf of relinquished infants and authorizes the Department of Healthcare and Family Services to adopt related rules.