News In Brief
Washington
US appeals access denial in Baby Jane Doe case
The Reagan administration has appealed a federal judge's refusal to release the medical records of a Long Island baby known as Baby Jane Doe. In October, the infant's parents decided, after consultation with doctors, to reject corrective surgery for the child who was diagnosed as severely handicapped.
US District Judge Leonard Wexler Nov. 17 declined the administration's request for hospital records. Federal authorities sought to determine whether the parents were guilty of discrimination against her because of the handicaps. Wexler said the parents' decision to reject surgery was ''reasonable'' and based on ''genuine concern'' for their daughter's welfare.
A spokesman for the Justice Department disclosed that the notice of appeal was filed late Nov. 18 at federal court in New York City.