What are the current laws?
There are Federal laws and State laws that protect the rights of breastfeeding mothers and provide a socially supportive environment. Mothers must be aware of the legislation that exists in their particular state to avoid feelings of discrimination and to alleviate any anxiety they may have in public places. States vary in their protection of women. • Forty-four states (and the District of Columbia and the Virgin Islands) have laws specifically allowing women to breastfeed in public and private places. • Twenty eight states (including the district of Columbia and the Virgin Islands) have specific laws exempting breastfeeding from public indecency laws. • Twenty four states (including the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico) have laws that protect women when breastfeeding in the workplace. • Twelve states (including Puerto Rico) exempt breastfeeding women from jury duty. • Five states and Puerto Rico have breastfeeding education campaigns. • Individual states also have unique laws. Pla
