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
University of Utah School of Medicine
Medical director
Primary Children's Medical Center
Salt Lake City