MEDIA CONTACT
Gillian Daniel, (402) 471-6585,
gillian.daniel@nebraska.gov
Lincoln, NE – On April 2, 2025, the first child since the expansion of Nebraska's Safe Haven law, Nebraska Revised Statute § 43-4903, was surrendered.
A healthy baby was surrendered to a safe haven location in the Northeastern part of the state and is under the care of the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). Due to HIPAA laws, no further details can be provided.
Effective July 19, 2024, Nebraska Revise d Statute § 43-4903 which allows a baby up to 90 days old to be left with an employee on duty at one of the following locations:
- A hospital licensed by the State of Nebraska;
- A staffed fire station;
- A staffed law enforcement agency; or
- An emergency care provider.
Individuals are protected from prosecution for any crime based solely on the act of surrendering a baby under the law.
“I want to thank Governor Jim Pillen and Senator Rick Holdcroft for their leadership in passing and signing the Safe Haven expansion bill into law last year," said Steve Corsi, CEO of DHHS. “This expansion is vital to protecting our most vulnerable children, ensuring that every child has a safe place when it's most needed."
To speak to someone about a safe surrender, call or text the National Safe Haven Alliance crisis line at 1-888-510-BABY (2229).
If you or a loved one need assistance, please reach out to:
- The Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Call, text, or chat 988.
- Nebraska Family Helpline – Any question, any time. (888) 866-8660.
- Rural Response Hotline, (800) 464-0258.