Final answer:
The Illinois Abandoned Newborn Infant Protection Act, also known as the Safe Haven Law, allows parents to relinquish their newborns at safe havens without facing legal consequences, to protect the welfare of the child.
Step-by-step explanation:
Illinois Abandoned Newborn Infant Protection Act (Safe Haven Law):
Under this law, a parent may relinquish an unharmed newborn that is no older than 30 days to a staff member at a designated safe haven without the threat of legal action for abandonment. In Illinois, safe havens include hospitals, emergency medical facilities, police stations, and fire stations. The Safe Haven Law's primary purpose is to ensure the newborn's safety and to provide an alternative to leaving a baby in an unsafe situation.
When a newborn is relinquished under this law, authorities will ensure that the child receives medical care and is placed with a child placement agency or the Department of Children and Family Services to find a permanent home and family. It is important to note that while parents can leave their newborns anonymously, they are encouraged to offer as much medical history as possible for the child's welfare.