North Carolina’s Safe Surrender Law

In 2001, the North Carolina General Assembly passed a law, G.S. 7B-500(b) or G.S. 7B-500(d), making it legal for females to surrender their newborn baby to a responsible adult without fear of criminal prosecution. While any responsible adult may receive a newborn, social workers, school nurses, school counselors and law enforcement are examples of responsible adults who are familiar with this law. More information can be found at https://www.ncdhhs.gov/assistance/pregnancy-services/safe-surrender. Those without internet access can contact a school nurse, school counselor, or social worker for more information.