Posted by
Billy email MADBillyD@aol.com on Monday, November 10, 2008 11:28:16 AM
"The great state of Nebraska was the last state of the union to sign what became the most comprehensive child safe haven law in America. In most states, the law specifies that an infant can be left at a “safe-haven” - usually meaning a hospital or a fire department…somewhere the child will get immediate attention - without the parent having to suffer any legal ramifications. Since the law took effect in July, some twenty-three children have been brought to safe-havens…some across state lines."
"Obviously, this idea came about as a means of saving lives. The thought was that now people who might toss their babies into dumpsters or abuse them would have the opportunity to save their lives by putting them in the care of responsible people. From here, appropriate child care would be found through adoptions or the care of appropriate and willing relatives. I always thought this was a great idea."
(The above is part of a blog posting by Dr. Laura. More of what she wrote is below.)
"Unfortunately, because of criticism aimed at parents who take advantage of protecting their children rather than harming them, the Governor of Nebraska, Dave Heinemen, is calling a special session of the legislature to change the state’s unique safe-haven law - amending it so that it applies only to infants up to 3 days old. I believe this is a HUGE mistake."
"The communications office of the Governor prepared a statement for all Nebraskans explaining his point of view. “Children from eight families have been left at hospitals under the safe haven law. None of the children involved were infants and one was in immediate danger. Courts are likely to require parents and guardians to participate in parenting classes, family therapy, conflict resolution or other services in an effort to reunite youth with their families.”
"I’m delighted that the Governor points out that there are services that MIGHT…only might…eliminate the necessity for the safe-haven - but very often, parental termination might be in the best interest of children of any age."
(Now I believe Dr. Laura has done many good things for our culture. However being from Nebraska I have to disagree with her on this item. I agree with her that older children need help too. I just don't believe it helps older children to know that their parents have given up on them. There are other ways than dropping kids off. Go to your Pastor, Rabbi, family, or friends. If you get chance read the whole post Dr. did
right here. )
(I like what a local leader here in Omaha posted on this issue. Chip Maxwell posted on his blog ."One of the "we meant to do that" senators now says he will introduce a bill to provide easier access for families to mental health options for their children.Sounds good, but why wasn't that approach taken when the safe haven law was first passed?"