The baby died, and the mother has now been charged with aggravated murder, involuntary manslaughter and child endangering. Somehow, the message hasn't gotten through. The new law, signed last year by Gov. Bob Taft, had broad support in the legislature. It basically allows parents legal indemnity if they leave their babies under 30 days old at a hospital or with law enforcement officers, EMTs or paramedics. It's a good law.
Child abandonment is a growing problem in the United States.
Between 1991 and 1998, the number of babies abandoned in hospitals rose 43 percent, and those left in public places, while considerably fewer in number, rose 62 percent. A far greater tragedy can occur when unfit parents abuse or even torture a baby to death. Parents, many of whom are children themselves, should be encouraged to leave their unwanted babies with the authorities. It does no good to prosecute them for abandonment, which can save a child's life if done in a proper manner, as the new law prescribes. But Ohio's new law won't help much either if those affected are unaware of it.