Breastfeeding Mothers’ Bill of Rights passes in Assembly

ALBANY – The Breastfeeding Mothers’ Bill of Rights, first enacted into state law in 2009, will be amended.
Assemblywoman Aileen Gunther (D, Forestburgh) who sponsored the initial measure, also carried this one.
The amendment, passed on Monday, requires the inclusion of language informing
breastfeeding mothers that state law allows them the opportunity to take
“reasonable unpaid breaks at work” to pump breast milk for
up to three years after childbirth and requires employers to make “reasonable
efforts” to provide a place where breast milk can be expressed in
privacy.
“Without question, breastfeeding is the healthiest, safest, and best choice for babies and mothers,” said Gunther. “It’s important that breastfeeding women know what their rights are and are afforded every opportunity to continue to breastfeed after they’ve returned to work.”
Senator Kemp Hannon is sponsoring the measure in the Senate, where action is pending.

Hank Gross

Hank Gross is the founder of Mid-Hudson News and a veteran journalist with over five decades of experience covering the Hudson Valley. A graduate of SUNY Oneonta, where he began his career in broadcasting, Hank has worked across radio, TV, and print media since 1970. His work has earned him numerous accolades, including an Associated Press “Best Newscast” award and recognition as a “Pillar of the Community” by the Greater Hudson Valley Family Health Center. He lives in Middletown with his wife, Virginia.