"New Laws Protect Breastfeeding Employees"

Returning to work after having a baby can be tough for new parents, but it can be especially difficult for breastfeeding mothers.  However, employers can play an important role in supporting breastfeeding, even when the mother is at work.  Creating a comfortable space and time for expressing milk is not only smart for business and helpful for breastfeeding employees, it’s the law.   Offering a lactation support program can help moms continue the breastfeeding relationship and has a good return on investment.  Workplace lactation support can reduce employee absenteeism, increase company loyalty and retain employees.  Since 58 percent of new mothers are in the workforce in Clark County, it’s important for companies to understand the law and how they can support breastfeeding employees.

How can employers support breastfeeding families?

· Work with breastfeeding employees to identify a reasonable break schedule for expressing milk.

• Provide a comfortable, private space for expressing milk. If your workplace doesn’t have a space, work with the employee to identify a convenient space and work schedule to accommodate their needs.

• Develop a lactation support policy and guideline for employees. 

Public Health can provide worksites with free technical assistance to create a breastfeeding-friendly environment. More information can be found on our website at Clark County Breastfeeding in the Workplace.

For more information about breastfeeding-friendly worksites, contact Healthy Communities program coordinator Yasmina Aknin at Yasmina.aknin@clark.wa.gov or call 564.397.7312