Published on December 22, 2022
District 9 Councilman and Bexar County District Attorney Request Attorney General’s Opinion on Life Saving “Baby Boxes”
SAN ANTONIO (Dec. 22, 2022) — Today, Bexar County District Attorney Joe Gonzales requested Attorney General Paxton’s opinion on whether the Texas “safe haven” law authorizes the installation of newborn safety drop-off devices at municipally-owned sites. Earlier this year, Councilman Courage announced his intent to file a Council Consideration Request for the installation of newborn safety devices at city-owned Safe Haven locations. These devices would allow individuals who can no longer care for a baby to surrender that child safely, and anonymously. “The District 9 office applauds the request for the Attorney General Opinion by District Attorney Joe Gonzales. This is a helpful step in the process of protecting the health and safety of newborn infants in San Antonio and Bexar County. To proceed with this Council Consideration Request, we need to work with the City Attorney’s Office to ensure we are within the requirements of the Texas "Safe Haven" law. We look forward to a favorable opinion by the Attorney General.” – District 9 Councilman The safety devices contemplated by the CCR will maintain an optimal environment for the care of an infant and must meet the following requirements:
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