The proposed amendments are intended to strengthen protections for parents by categorizing the surrender of an infant through these devices as a safe and legal option without fear of immediate legal repercussions. Notably, the bill emphasizes that evidence gained from the surrender cannot be used against the parent in legal actions, fostering a climate where parents can feel secure in their choice to utilize safe haven options. This change is seen as a necessary step to prevent tragic outcomes for at-risk infants.
Summary
House Bill 1607 aims to expand safe haven protections in New Hampshire by allowing a parent to surrender their child anonymously through safe haven infant safety devices. This bill proposes to extend the time frame for surrender from 7 days to 61 days after birth, aligning New Hampshire's legislation with more progressive laws in other states. The bill addresses concerns that current laws have led to confusion and fear among parents considering surrendering their infants due to the possibility of prosecution and loss of anonymity.
Contention
There has been pushback regarding the bill, primarily from law enforcement and some community members who argue that it may unintentionally aid criminal behavior if safeguards are not established. However, supporters argue that the updates are crucial for saving lives and preventing harm to infants. The bill is framed as a necessary adjustment to current laws that have become outdated and have not adequately served the best interests of vulnerable families and children.
Prohibiting gender transition procedures for minors, relative to sex and gender in public schools, and relative to the definition of conversion therapy.
Expanding the definition of providers who can certify patients of the therapeutic cannabis program and relative to release of a defendant pending trial and relative to product labeling and information guide requirements for cannabis products and the prohibition of the sale of hemp products containing certain levels of THC.