The ND Century Code (50-25.1-15) was amended to authorize the installation of newborn safety devices (Safe Haven Baby Boxes), effective August 1, 2025. However, none have currently been installed in North Dakota.(N.D.C.C. 50-25.1-15(3))
Approved locations are a crucial component of the Baby Safe Haven Law. It’s necessary to understand the function they fulfill in an infant abandonment situation, as well as what they can and cannot do.
Approved Locations Must:
- Accept an abandoned infant
- Provide the birth parent or agent with a medical history form
- Call for a non-emergency medical transport and care for the infant while waiting for medical responders to arrive.
- Report the situation to Child Protection Services only after the birth parent or their agent leaves the location
- Provide a bracelet to the infant and to the birth parent and/or parent’s agent. (Hospitals only-standard hospital bracelet will suffice.)
- Request information regarding the infant and birth parents. (See Medical History Form)
- Provide medical and legal information to the birth parent or their agent. (See Baby Safe Haven Pamphlet)
Approved Locations Cannot:
- Force either the birth parents or their agent to give any information
Approved Locations must provide an envelope with the approved location’s return address to the parent/agent along with the medical history form. (N.D.C.C. 50-25.1-15(3))