An abandoned infant is at grave risk of death. A few mothers, alone and afraid, panic and place their newborn in jeopardy. Rep. Patrice Arent has proposed legislation that will give these mothers a practical alternative to discarding their newborn.

I am convinced that they will not relinquish their infants if there is any risk of identification. While there are details that must be addressed in a final bill, we collectively have a responsibility to protect the lives of our most defenseless citizens. Rep. Arent's bill will meet that responsibility by providing a sanctuary for abandoned infants and anonymity for their mothers.

Edward B. Clark, M.D.

Chairman, Department of Pediatrics

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University of Utah School of Medicine

Medical director

Primary Children's Medical Center

Salt Lake City

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