Over the last 25 years, the Surgeons General of the United States have worked to protect, promote, and support mothers who choose to breastfeed. Surgeon General Regina M. Benjamin, M.D., M.B.A., issued a national Call to Action to Support Breastfeeding, urging doctors, family members, employers, communities, and local governments to help more mothers meet their breastfeeding goals.
Breastfeeding in public
Generally speaking, every mom has the right to breastfeed anywhere that she and her baby are legally allowed to be. This includes stores, restaurants, coffee shops, museums, and parks. In most states, laws protect a mother’s right to breastfeed. (Read "Breastfeeding in Daily Life.") The more confident you feel with breastfeeding, the easier nursing in public will be. And you can have peace of mind knowing that you can meet your baby’s needs anywhere you happen to be. According to the National Conference of State Legislatures:- 45 states and the District of Columbia have laws that specifically allow women to breastfeed in any public or private location.
- 24 states and the District of Columbia have laws related to breastfeeding in the workplace.
- At least two states (Louisiana and Mississippi) have laws related to child care facilities and breastfeeding.