PROTECTING ABANDONED BABIES

　Controversial new laws are making it possible for mothers to abandon a baby legally in a dozen states across the country. In Florida, for example, a parent can leave her baby anonymously at a hospital or a fire station up to 72 hours after its birth without being prosecuted.

　"When a newborn is left on a doorstep, it's usually because the mother has panicked," says Senator Grant (R-FL), who sponsored the legislation in his state. "We're saying, let's give her an option where she can make sure the infant is safe.... Let's put the babies first."

　Critics of such legislation are concerned that it encourages abandonment rather than responsible behavior. Some, including Joyce Johnson, spokesperson for the Child Welfare League of America, question these laws adequately help either the mother or the infant. "It's hard for us to say we're opposed to legislation that protects children form harm, but we're cautious. These laws don't seem to address the underlying causes as to why babies are abandoned," she says. "And for the child who later finds out these are the circumstances of the start of her life, the consequences can be devastating (overwhelmingly disturbing)." Other experts point out that infant abandonment is a relatively rare problem (105 cases were documented in1998) and that parents already have the option of putting unwanted babies up for adoption. However, proponents (supporters) counter (argue against) that these laws are often aimed at young women who have been hiding their pregnancy and don't see adoption as a viable option.

　 As the debate continues, the push to make abandonment legal is still going strong : Another 23 to 30 states are already considering similar legislation.

--- Barbara Alden Wilson

Parenting OCTOBER 2000

EXTENSION

1. Is abandonment of babies a phenomenon (observable fact) in Japan? Is it illegal?
2. How do you feel about abandonment? Is it beneficial to the child? For the mother?
3. What are some other options for a mother with an unwanted baby?