Safe Haven laws allow mothers to give up their babies safely to authorities, with no questions asked. Those with questions about how the laws can help may call a toll-free crisis hotline at 888-510-BABY.
Safe haven laws are in effect across the U.S., but vary state to state. Read on for the laws in D.C., Maryland and Virginia:
D.C.:
In Washington D.C., you can leave your unharmed baby, up to seven days old, with an emergency medical service provider, or an employee at any hospital, fire department or police department.
Maryland:
In Maryland, you can leave your baby, up to 10 days old, with any responsible adult, hospital or another designated location in Maryland. Another person who has the approval of baby's mother can also be the one to bring the baby to those places.
Virginia:
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In Virginia, you can leave your baby, up to 14 days old, with an employee at any hospital emergency room or emergency medical rescue squad.
West Virginia:
In West Virginia, you can leave your baby, up to 30 days old, with an employee at any hospital or medical facility.
