Gov. Tony Evers has proclaimed April 3 as Safe Place for Newborns Day in Wisconsin, marking the 25th anniversary of the state’s Safe Haven Law. The announcement comes as Wisconsin updates its law to extend the safe surrender window for newborns from 72 hours to 30 days.
The change aims to provide greater protection for infants and support parents who may be experiencing crisis situations. Supporters say that expanding the time frame will allow more families to make informed, safe decisions without fear or penalty.
Since its introduction in 2001, more than 400 infants have been safely surrendered under Wisconsin’s Safe Haven Law and placed directly with pre-adoptive families. This process helps prevent unsafe abandonment and ensures immediate care for vulnerable babies.
Tricia Burkett, State Coordinator for Safe Place for Newborns, said, “Wisconsin is unique because it allows mothers to safely deliver and surrender their newborn at the same hospital, an option not available in many other states. This distinction is critical. In Wisconsin, the law supports both mother and baby by encouraging safe, medically supervised deliveries while also providing a compassionate, judgment-free option for surrender.”
Ascension Wisconsin works with Safe Place for Newborns to educate communities about infant relinquishment options and emphasizes prenatal care as well as open communication between expectant mothers and healthcare providers. The organization says these efforts help reduce stigma and empower women facing difficult choices.
Ascension Wisconsin continues its commitment to providing a secure environment for both mothers and babies through support from donors, grant funding, and its foundation.
