House passes bill allowing optional infant safety devices ("baby boxes") after Sioux Falls case

House Bill 1044, known on the floor as the “baby Gabriel bill,” passed final passage on the House floor after sponsors described community events in Sioux Falls and cited constituent contacts from new mothers seeking anonymous surrender options. Representative Soy, the bill’s prime sponsor, said the bill does not change existing Safe Haven law or create state funding but allows private entities to install infant safety devices as an additional, voluntary surrender option.

The sponsor recounted the August 2024 death of an infant later named Gabriel James Doe and said the incident and subsequent calls to Safe Haven organizations highlighted that some parents in crisis might need an anonymous, non‑face‑to‑face option. Soy said groups such as South Dakota Right to Life had pledged to raise funds and lead publicity for the devices.

Other members spoke in support. Representative Sharma described examples from popular media and long‑term family impacts to illustrate why anonymous surrender options can save lives; Representative Malawi asked how the devices would be publicized and was told private fundraisers and billboards were expected. Representative Lehi and others offered personal endorsements. No state funding was attached to the bill, and sponsors emphasized it remains optional for communities and private groups.

On the final vote the clerk reported ayes 68, excused 1; the bill was declared passed. The statute added authorization for infant safety devices for voluntary anonymous surrender and clarified the provision was permissive and privately funded. The bill now proceeds to the Senate.