EXPOSURE OF CHILDREN TO DRUGS

SB 6 redefines child abuse to include knowingly exposing a child to Schedule I or II illegal drugs (like opioids or meth) at birth, making this a criminal offense. Parents or caregivers who allow newborns to test positive for these drugs due to prenatal exposure face felony charges, with penalties increasing for repeat offenses or serious harm. The bill also allows hospitals or healthcare providers to temporarily place newborns showing drug withdrawal symptoms into protective custody without a court order, for up to 24 hours, to ensure immediate safety. This directly affects parents/caregivers with substance use issues and newborns exposed to drugs prenatally, prioritizing infant safety through clearer legal consequences and emergency custody protocols.