A4157

Requires newly constructed police stations, fire stations, and hospitals to provide newborn safety device; allows affirmative defense to prosecution for abandonment if parent leaves child in device.

Introduced·2/19/26
Introduced Text

New Jersey A4157 mandates newborn safety devices in new police stations, fire stations, and hospitals, allowing parents to avoid abandonment charges.

New Jersey A4157 requires newly constructed police stations, fire stations, and hospitals to install newborn safety devices. These devices are secure compartments with alarms for safely placing newborns. The bill allows parents to avoid abandonment charges if they leave their infants in these devices. The Commissioner of Community Affairs will set rules for these devices, including which other facilities can install them. The Division of Child Protection and Permanency will take custody of abandoned children, ensuring they are not reported missing.

Included in complete analysis

  • Overview
  • Core Provisions
  • Implementation
  • Impact
  • Legal Framework
  • Critical Issues

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Where it stands

Current
Children, Families and Food Security Committee
Next
Committee decision

Sponsors

D
1
0
Democratic CaucusRepublican Caucus

History

Feb 19

Assembly

Introduced, Referred to Assembly Children, Families and Food Security Committee