First baby surrendered under Nebraska’s expanded safe haven law
LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services on Thursday announced the first baby was surrendered under the state’s expanded safe haven law.
On Wednesday, the healthy baby was dropped off at a safe haven location in the northeast part of the state and is now under the care of the DHHS.
The new law became effective on July 19, and allows a baby up to 90 days old to be left with an employee on duty at one of the following locations:
- A hospital licensed by the State of Nebraska
- A staffed fire station
- A staffed law enforcement agency
- An emergency care provider
Individuals are protected from prosecution for any crime based solely on the act of surrendering a baby under the law.
“I want to thank Governor Jim Pillen and Senator Rick Holdcroft for their leadership in passing and signing the Safe Haven expansion bill into law last year,” said Steve Corsi, CEO of DHHS. “This expansion is vital to protecting our most vulnerable children, ensuring that every child has a safe place when it’s most needed.”
To speak to someone about a safe surrender, call or text the National Safe Haven Alliance crisis line at 1-800-510-BABY.
If you or a loved one need assistance, you can reach out to:
- The Suicide and Crisis Lifeline; Call, text or chat 988
- Nebraska Family Helpline – Any question, any time at 888-866-8660
- Rural Response Hotline at 800-464-0258
