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Safe Havens

Laws and programs allowing anonymous abandonment exist in the U.S. and abroad. Proponents say they save lives and guarantee anonymity, opponents say they harm women and children. Resources include laws and programs, nationwide hotlines, and position state

Legalized Abandonment

What are "safe haven" laws and programs? Which states have passed laws and offer programs? Here's what you need to know about legalized abandonment and some of the questions it raises.... [more]

The Debate Hits the Fan

The release of a study by a prestigious adoption institute criticizing 'safe haven' laws has brought reactions from leading adoption advocates and activists on both sides of the issue.... [more]

Heavenly Differences

An episode of "7th Heaven" fans the flames of the debate over Safe Haven laws. Speaking against the laws and the show's portrayal: Marley Greiner, Bastard Nation. Speaking for the laws and the show's treatment: William Pierce, IAVAAN.... [more]

Born Under the X

A law enacted by the French Vichy government in 1941 guarantees absolute anonymity to mothers who choose it, and deprives those 'born under the X' (sous x) of their right to know their origins. While the French laws are being challenged, similar laws are flourishing in the U.S. Pro: Bill Pierce, Con: Ron Morgan.... [more]

Nationwide Hotline Programs

These programs provide a toll-free hotline number for women who are hiding a pregnancy or considering abandonment. Programs offer confidential counseling, adoption referrals if wanted, information about Safe Haven programs, and other resources.... [more]

State Safe Haven Laws and Programs

Direct links to and information about state laws enacted and/or propsed on legal abandonment and safe haven programs around the U.S.... [more]

Study: Safe Haven Laws Cause - Don't Solve - Problems

Results of a study by the Evan B. Donaldson Adoption Institute support claims that new 'safe haven' laws are causing problems, not solving them.... [more]

A Rush to Judgment?
Cynthia Dailard writes for the Alan Guttmacher Institute, questioning whether a flawed approach is better than none.

Child Welfare League Monograph
The Child Welfare League provides information on baby abandonment, pointing to a wider scope of issues that must be addressed. Also includes an Infant Abandonment Survey,

Position Paper: Safe Haven for Whom?
Ethica, "a voice for ethical adoption," takes the position that while 'safe haven' laws are well-intentioned, they are not serving the best interests of parents or children.

Position Statement: Abandoned Baby Legislation
Position paper from the American Adoption Congress opposing "safe haven" laws.

The Adoptability of Abandoned Babies
Associate Law Professor Joanna Grossman looks at Baby Moses laws and adoption.

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