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Lawmakers Differ On Safe-Haven Tweaks

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The Associated Press

The Tampa Tribune

Published: November 17, 2008

LINCOLN, Neb. - A Nebraska lawmaker with an important role in changing the state's safe-haven statute says the Legislature might be asked to do more than put an age limit in the law that has led to the abandonment of nearly three dozen children.

Sen. Brad Ashford of Omaha said the Judiciary Committee, which he chairs, could ask that the scope of the special legislative session now under way be expanded. Instead of just adding an age limit to the law, lawmakers could be asked to act to improve access to mental health services.

"The concern is real about these services not being available to older children," Ashford said after the Legislature met briefly.

In calling the rare special session, Gov. Dave Heineman ordered lawmakers to only consider putting an age limit in the law.

The Judiciary Committee will hold public hearings today on two bills that would put age caps in the safe-haven law. Here's what the committee is being asked to consider:

•An age limit of three days on children who could be dropped off at hospitals recommended by the governor.

•A two-tiered plan under which children as old as 15 could be dropped off.

•An amendment to the age-limit bills that calls for a 1-year age cap and another that will limit the age to 4 months.

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