A House bill that would fund the creation of “baby boxes” where parents can safely and legally relinquish children was heard April 2.

House Bill 121 would create the “Safe Place for Newborns Fund” and could create up to 25 functioning newborn safety incubators, said the bill’s sponsor, Rep. Jim Murphy, R-Oakville.

Murphy was praised for creating a policy that is “bipartisan” and “pro-life” by members of the Senate Families, Seniors and Health committee on April 2. 

Newborn safety incubators are set up in fire stations, hospitals and law enforcement agencies nationwide, providing a protected space for a relinquishing parent to leave their child.

The drop off locations are termed “Safe Haven Baby Boxes” after the nonprofit that creates and installs them. Inside are alarm systems that call 911 when the box is used. They also feature heating and cooling systems.

Each box costs about $20,000 to buy and build.

Currently, there are six functioning baby boxes in Missouri. Two have opened in the past month and an additional two are in the process of being installed. According to The Associated Press, the first child was surrendered via a baby box in Missouri in February 2024, three years after the state legalized the practice.

HB 121 stipulates the fund will be created in the state treasury, and Missouri will match any donations made up to $10,000 for each newborn safety incubator installed.

The bill would also extend the time allowed for voluntary relinquishment of a child from 45 to 90 days.

“I just wanted to give the women a little more time to make their decision,” Murphy said. 

The bill passed in the Missouri House and a House committee unanimously.