Who may relinquish a baby?
• Parent: • does not express an intent to return for the child or expresses an intent not to return for the child. • Presumption that the relinquisher is the child’s biological parent and intends to relinquish the child. • Parent may rebut this presumption at any time before the termination of the parent’s parental rights. • If a mother gives birth to a child in the hospital, her act of leaving that child at the hospital without expressing an intent to return for the child is not a relinquishment under this Act. What are the incentives for a person to relinquish a baby at a Safe Haven? • Anonymity: • If there is no evidence of abuse or neglect, the relinquishing person has the right to remain anonymous and leave the safe haven without being pursued. • Protection from Liability: • Act of relinquishing a child in accordance with this act does not violate the criminal code or constitute a basis for a finding of abuse, neglect or abandonment. Who can accept a relinquished baby? • Personnel
