Albany, NY - June 2, 2016 - New York State Assembly voted with overwhelming support for lactation accommodations in New York State airports. The legislation sponsored by Assembly Member Michaelle Solages (D-Elmont) would require airports to provide a nursing space for breastfeeding mothers behind the security screening area equipped with a chair and an electrical outlet away from public view.
“While traveling with my infant son, I noticed many places lacked a designated, non-bathroom space for nursing or pumping. Many times I would have to pump in a bathroom,” stated Assemblymember Solages. “There are many laws that would require employers to provide their staff with a private place to pump breast milk other than a bathroom. However, in New York State there is no such requirement for airports or other public spaces.”
By providing permanent public accommodations, this bill would make New York's airports a more friendly environment for nursing mothers. Amenities would include adequate seating, electrical outlets, and these spots would be separate from public restrooms. “The benefits of breastfeeding are well-documented. By providing a designated, non-bathroom space for travelers and airline staff, we will encourage new mothers to breastfeed and work to perpetuate healthy parenting practices,” said Assemblymember Solages.
“Lactation Rooms in public buildings will help to make breastfeeding easier for many families. Mothers who are separated from their babies will be able to more easily express milk in a clean, private place. While breastfeeding in public is a protected civil right which should be encouraged, it is not always easy to do,” stated Dr.Susan Vierczhalek, Chair of the New York State Breastfeeding Coalition. “Women who feel more comfortable breastfeeding in a private place or whose infants become distracted when feeding will also benefit. This is a great practical way to help normalize and support breastfeeding in today’s world.”
“Traveling with a baby can be stressful enough; New York’s mothers shouldn’t also have to worry about finding a sanitary and private place to nurse their child,” said Senator Tim Kennedy. “As our families across New York State grow and expand, so too does the number of mothers nationwide who are choosing to nurse their newborns, and we need to make sure we’re providing the proper support for them as once they leave the hospital. Through this legislation, we’re simply making sure that our mothers across the state have access to the accommodations they deserve, which is why it’s so important that my colleagues in the Senate act quickly and decisively.”
Senator Tim Kennedy (D-Buffalo) is calling on his colleagues in the Senate to follow the Assembly and bring the Senate bill S7713 to the floor for a full vote. To date the the bill sits in the Senate Transportation Committee, and is expected to move through the Rules Committee and on to the floor.
‘Lactation Accommodation in Airports Act’ is a massive step forward in the process to reforming various public areas to accommodate the needs of expecting women across the state. This proposal would go into effect by January 2017. Bill A07989 now heads to the New York State Senate for consideration.
Click here to review Bill A7989.
