Nice Idea, But...
Supporters of these laws and programs believe they will prevent crime and save lives, providing immediate medical care for the babies and reducing risks of exposure and death when babies are abandoned far from medical help.
Others praise efforts to protect children, but question long-term benefits for the child. One of many critics, Judy Hay, a spokeswoman for Harris County (TX) Children's Protective Services, said, "that person grows up with that wrenching question: Who am I? What's my medical history? What's my ethnic background? Basic information that every adult should have. And there's nothing we can do to help them with that kind of pain."
Many Concerns
Think these laws are the greatest? You've got company, as the number of state laws and programs attests.
Think these laws are missing the point? Read opinions of Legislators, Child Welfare professionals, and others who agree.
Additional Resources
© Nancy S. Ashe