An adoption advocacy group is urging lawmakers and local officials to halt Iowa’s expansion of “baby boxes,” arguing they compromise the intent of the state’s Safe Haven law to ensure infant and parent safety.
Why it matters: The debate reveals a conflict over whether the specially designed compartments that allow parents — or someone they designate — to anonymously leave an infant are a good way to support families in crisis.
Catch up quick: The boxes are climate-controlled compartments built into fire stations or hospitals.
- An exterior door provides access and is intended for a child no more than 90 days old, alerting responders when it closes, allowing the infant to be retrieved within minutes.
Driving the news: Norwalk officials held a dedication ceremony at the city’s fire station last week for Iowa’s third box…